Kawartha Lakes celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21

Kawartha Lakes is proud to recognize and celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. This Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to reflect on the Seven Sacred Teachings of the Anishinaabeg, which focus on living the unifying values of humility, bravery, honesty, wisdom, truth, respect, and love. This important day honours the historic and current rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples across Canada.

Established in 1996, National Indigenous Peoples Day is a time for all Canadians to reflect on the diverse heritage of Indigenous peoples and to commit to learning more about their histories and ongoing contributions to our shared future.

“It is harder for me to really enjoy Indigenous Peoples Day this year given the government of Ontario’s passing Bill 5 without properly consulting Indigenous people and others and bypassing its treaty obligations,” states Ward 3 Councillor, Mike Perry, who is Métis.

“I have hope that we will make it together if we are true to the Anishinaabe seven sacred teachings of humility, bravery, honesty, wisdom, truth, respect, and love that unite us all in shared values and common cause,” he continued. “My hope comes from the work I see in my fellow Councillors honouring Indigenous leaders, by approving a resolution last year that the City Hall flag will be lowered when Indigenous leaders pass away, and by my fellow residents installing the story poles at the Grove Theater, and Mishkodeh Bobcaygeon’s well-attended celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day.”

This year, we invite community members to participate in a variety of celebrations and learning opportunities, including events hosted by Curve Lake First Nation, located just outside of Peterborough. The community will be hosting a day of community celebrations, at Lime Kiln Park. Festivities include a Sunrise Ceremony, BBQ lunch, a mini artisan market and fireworks at dusk. To see the full scope of activities and timelines checkout Curve Lake’s June communication. These public events are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Indigenous heritage in a spirit of community and reconciliation.

Learn and Reflect: Educational Resources

For municipal staff, educators, and members of the public who wish to learn more, the City recommends checking out the collection of Indigenous Resources on the Kawartha Lakes Library website to find library materials for all ages and reviewing Indigenous Led Resources.