Historic Flag Raising on National Indigenous Peoples Day

Historic Flag Raising on National Indigenous Peoples Day. A Day the country celebrates Indigenous history

June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day for all 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.

Although these groups share many similarities, they each have their own distinct heritage, language, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs.

Indigenous organizations and the Canada Government chose June 21, the summer solstice, for National Aboriginal Day, now known as National Indigenous Peoples Day. For generations, many Indigenous peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year.

What led to the creation of National Indigenous Peoples Day?

National Aboriginal Day (now National Indigenous Peoples Day) was announced in 1996 by then Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, through the Proclamation Declaring June 21 of Each Year as National Aboriginal Day. This was the result of consultations and statements of support for such a day made by various Indigenous groups:

• in 1982, the National Indian Brotherhood (now the Assembly of First Nations) called for the creation of National Aboriginal Solidarity Day
• in 1995, the Sacred Assembly, a national conference of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people chaired by Elijah Harper, called for a national holiday to celebrate the contributions of Indigenous Peoples
• also in 1995, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples recommended the designation of a National First Peoples Day

On June 21, 2017, the Prime Minister issued a statement announcing the intention to rename this day National Indigenous Peoples Day.

In Manitoba, we are seeing the historic raising of the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) flag at the RCMP Detachment in Thompson.

“Despite the many difficulties First Nations have encountered in our relationship with the RCMP, we are focused on building a stronger relationship with the RCMP in MKO territory. I am pleased with the raising of the MKO flag at the RCMP detachment. I hope this will provide a strong signal to the Indigenous community in Northern Manitoba that the RCMP are open to working with us in a supportive way,” stated Grand Chief Garrison Settee.

The RCMP headquarters unveiled a new structure that acknowledges the Traditional Territory of the Algonquin Nation, highlights First Nation teachings, and recognizes First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.

Across the country, National Indigenous Peoples Day is being celebrated by not just Indigenous communities, it’s celebrated by all Canadians.

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