Here in the NWT we may look forward more than anywhere else in Canada to National Aboriginal Day on June 21. That’s because this is the only place in Canada where it’s a statutory holiday.
Aboriginal Day is more than just a chance to enjoy the summer solstice. I hope you will get out and participate in the wonderful community activities planned across the NWT. Take advantage of the opportunity to celebrate Indigenous Canadians and their contributions to the fabric of your community and country.
As an educator, I know that there’s always more to know and understand. Here’s three more ways we can all become better informed about Indigenous issues, cultures and contributions.
- Take part in the Indigenous Book Club during June and read a book by an Indigenous author. CBC radio’s Unreserved show and the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs encourage you to post your Indigenous book suggestions on Twitter and Facebook.
- Take part in the Read the TRC Report Challenge. Join more than 3,000 people who have already pledged to read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report into residential schools. Challenge a local politician, family and friends to join the challenge. If you find it easier to listen to the report - no problem. An audio version is available.
- Explore the issues. The Indigenous Issues 101 pages at http://apihtawikosisan.com/ is a good place to start. It lists plenty of online and print resources to help gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous issues in Canada. The list includes links to the CBC’s 8th Fire series of documentaries, interviews and videos.
It’s no surprise to learn that a recent survey finds non-Indigenous northerners are more likely than non-Indigenous Canadians in other parts of the country to pay attention to news and stories about Indigenous people. We’re also more likely to agree that Indigenous people have unique rights.
The seven organizations behind the national survey of opinions of non-Indigenous Canadians believe it’s worth tracking shifts in knowledge, beliefs and attitudes towards Indigenous peoples. Views about Aboriginal people must improve, even in the North, if we hope to have a better relationship and reconciliation.
We can all do our part to be better informed. Read, listen, watch and experience this National Aboriginal Day. You’ll be glad you did.
-- Norma Gauthier
Thanks to our guest blogger this week, Norma Gauthier. Norma is the treasurer on our board and is an educator from Behchokǫ̀.
