Destiny Discover
National Indigenous History Month

Event Date: May 31, 2023

This year’s Catholic Education Week theme, “We are Many, We are One,” focuses on intentional listening – to each other and to the Holy Spirit.

During the month of June, the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board (HWCDSB), will recognize National Indigenous History Month (NIHM) through active listening, learning and reflection, to honour the rights, heritage and diversity of Indigenous peoples in Canada. NIHM is also a time to appreciate and acknowledge the history, sacrifices, cultures, and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people that helped to shape Canada and to recognize the strength of present-day Indigenous communities.

Other important dates in June:
The House of Commons designated June as National Aboriginal History Month in 2009. The name was changed to National Indigenous History Month in 2017.

June 11th marks the anniversary of the Canadian government’s apology to former students of Residential schools.

June 21st, National Indigenous Peoples Day, which coincides with the summer solstice. On this day, we recognize, celebrate, and honour the achievements, history and rich cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada. Although these groups share many similarities, they each have their own distinct heritage, languages, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs.

The following resources support continued learning:
Full text of Pope Francis’s apology for Catholic abuse in residential schools
Bishop Bolen on the CCCB response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission
Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops – Indigenous Peoples
Our Lady of Guadalupe Circle – Seeking Truth and Reconciliation
”That We May Walk Together” – Series of Pastoral Letters (2003)
CBC Kids Indigenous
Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack Fund – What is ReconciliACTION
Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack – Take the Pledge
Step-by-step painting of the Thunderbird Woman with Isaac Murdock
Indigenous Peoples Atlas of Canada
HWCDSB Indigenous Education Website
Learn More About National Indigenous History Month
National Indigenous Peoples Day
Celebrating Indigenous Peoples in Canada: Learning and Activity Guide
Celebrating Indigenous Peoples in Canada
Kids Stop





National Indigenous History Month