June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritages, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples, as recognized by the Canadian Constitution.  

Learn more about National Indigenous Peoples Day 

There are many events planned locally and across the province. The City of Toronto’s annual Sunrise Ceremony, in honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day, will take place at Nathan Phillips Square on Tuesday, June 21 at 5:30 a.m. All are welcome. More events happening in Ontario. 

Humber College is committed to recognizing and celebrating Indigenous cultures, histories, and Knowledges in our academic programming, events, professional development, and other initiatives throughout the year. This work is guided by the Department of Indigenous Education and Engagement (IE&E) and Humber’s Indigenous Education Council. There is an imperative for every college and university, including Humber, to engage in Truth and Reconciliation. We all have the opportunity to participate through ongoing, genuine, caring and empathetic learning, and by choosing to act on the 94 recommendations in the Calls to Action, as we collectively recognize and address the legacy of residential schools. As the 2021 Colleges and Institutes of Canada Gold Medal recipient for Indigenous Education Excellence, Humber provides opportunities to learn about and build understanding of the impact and legacy of residential schools in Canada, all year round. 

It is the work of all Canadians to understand the impacts of residential schools, the policies that created the conditions for the devastation of Indigenous cultures and communities, and the ways that Indigenous peoples are driving a resurgence that will write, and right, the future of our country. The negative impacts on Indigenous cultures have been experienced for generations, and it will require a multigenerational commitment from all Canadians to change this.  

On June 21, we ask that you support Indigenous staff and students who may want to gather or participate in broader community events or do what they need to do to commemorate the multigenerational trauma of residential schools.  

Please visit Humber’s Indigenous Education and Engagement website for more information.