June marks the beginning of National Indigenous History Month

National Indigenous History Month The Confluence hosts the launch of National Indigenous History Month. It’s the first of many events expected all month long.

Canadians will spend this month learning about and celebrating the cultures, languages, knowledge, histories, and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, as June has been designated as National Indigenous History Month.

The Calgary Public Library, in partnership with The Confluence, is hosting an opening ceremony and round dance at The Confluence (formerly Fort Calgary).

Events included a round dance, tipi raising and teachings, traditional Dene and Inuit games, art, and a screening of the film Jordan River Anderson, The Messenger.

“I think (it's) just (about) building on community connections, bringing people together,” says Kelli Morning Bull the Calgary Public Library service design lead.

“What I've noticed in the past few years here, I mean, more recently, we've been having more people gathering in spaces like this, celebrating," she said. "

"Previous to that," she added, "a lot of events were just hosted, or were just attended by a lot of Indigenous folks, which is, you know, great, but we also want to expand on that and include our non-Indigenous friends to come and participate and learn and take away something new."

In a statement, Governor General Mary Simon said,” As we reflect on the wisdom and knowledge that has been passed down through the generations, we must also acknowledge the pain and trauma of the past and present and we must share stories of resilience, success and joy."

She urged Canadians to listen to the voices of Indigenous peoples and to their lived experiences and to engage in meaningful conversations.

“As part of reconciliation, we want to share as much as we can about the culture. A lot of the times we hear the dark history of Canada, residential schools, Sixties Scoop and MMWIG and so June is a time to celebrate Indigenous culture, learn who are the Indigenous people of the areas that they're residing in and partaking in activities,” said Morning Bull.

The library is also planning special programming on Neighbour Day on June 15 and National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21.

With files from Tyler Barrow