Indigenous History Month
Indigenous History Month culminates with the National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21st. June 21st was chosen in light of the fact that many Indigenous peoples and communities have traditionally celebrated their culture and heritage on or near the summer solstice – the longest day of the year. This day is an opportunity for Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. The Canadian Constitution recognizes these three groups as Aboriginal peoples, also known as Indigenous peoples, but it is important to know that each of these groups have their own distinct heritage, language, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs.
Cooking Indigenous Style
Activities:
Inuvialuit-Style Donuts – All Ages
Frybread Stuffed Pizza – All Ages
Fried Bannock Dogs – All Ages
Books to Read:
Fry Bread: a Native American Family Story, by Maillard, Kevin Noble
Native American Food: From Salmon to Succotash, by Shofner, Melissa Rae
A Feast for All Seasons, by George, Andrew
Indigenous Art
Activities:
Weaving Cute Baby Turtles Using God’s Eye Weaving Pattern – School Ages
Dream Catcher From a Paper Plate – School Aged
Painting in the Style of Ted Harrison – School Aged
Books to Read:
Northwest Coast Native Animals, by Robinson, Kelly
Learn the Alphabet With Northwest Coast Native Art
Art of the Totem: Totem Poles of the Northwest Coastal Indians, by Barbeau, Marius
The Inuit
Activities:
Sugar Cube Igloo – All Ages
Simple Inuit Crafts for Kids – PreK to 3
5 Easy Animal Projects You Can Do in an Afternoon – PreK – 3
Books to Read:
Inuit Folk Tales, by Rasmussen, Knud
Inuit Prints: Japanese Inspiration – Canadian Museum of Civilization
Inuit Art, by Hessel, Ingo
The Métis
Activities:
Over and Under Weaving – School Age
Finger Knit Braid Scarf for Kids – School Aged
Aboriginal Clapping Sticks – PreK – 3
Books to Read:
We Learn From the Sun, by Bouchard, David
Granny’s Giant Bannock, by Wastasecoot, Brenda Isabel
Jenneli’s Dance, by Denny, Elizabeth
