Pictured: Cheryle Chagnon-Greyeyes an Indigenous Facilitator and Traditional Knowledge Keeper from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, Saskatchewan – Treaty 6 Territory.
It’s Indigenous History Month: a period of reflection, celebration, and acknowledgment of the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples. It’s vitally important that we honour the diverse traditions and achievements of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples throughout the year, not just during the month of June. However, Indigenous History Month provides an excellent opportunity for all Canadians to learn about and appreciate the contributions Indigenous communities have made. By celebrating Indigenous History Month, we strive for reconciliation, understanding, and a shared commitment to respect and support Indigenous rights and inclusivity.
To fully appreciate the significance of Indigenous History Month, it is important to acknowledge Canada’s complex history. The arrival of European settlers led to significant changes for Indigenous peoples, including the loss of land, forced assimilation, and the devastating impact of residential schools. Recognizing this painful history is crucial for building understanding, empathy, and fostering reconciliation with Indigenous communities.
Indigenous History Month here at Sonshine serves as a platform to celebrate the diversity of Canada’s Indigenous cultures and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. By engaging in cultural activities, listening to Indigenous speakers, and supporting Indigenous-owned businesses, we can strengthen our understanding and appreciation for their rich heritage. We actively support initiatives that promote Indigenous rights, and advocate for improved access to education and healthcare. Amplifying Indigenous voices is an important step towards the healing of our past and enriching our future.
In 2022, 37% of clients who accessed services here at Sonshine identified as Indigenous. This statistic is important as Sonshine has the capacity to offer more Indigenous workshops to provide cultural education, advocacy and awareness to residents and staff. Increasing the availability of Indigenous story times, drum circles, medicine wheels, language classes, leadership programs at Sonshine can have a powerful impact on residents, promoting a deeper understanding, integration and appreciation of Indigenous culture, history and traditions. These experiences can also help promote healing and growth, and foster a greater sense of purpose for residents impacted by domestic violence.
Furthermore, these initiatives can help to address the historical and ongoing marginalization of Indigenous peoples by promoting awareness and understanding among staff and residents. This increased cultural competency can lead to more inclusive and respectful interactions, both within Sonshine and beyond its walls.
By honouring Indigenous Peoples here at Sonshine, we acknowledge the profound impact they have had and continue to have on Canada’s cultural fabric. This month-long celebration is an invitation to all Canadians to learn, reflect, and work towards fostering understanding, reconciliation, and a brighter future where Indigenous cultures are well respected, celebrated, and integrated into the diversity of our country.
If you’d like to learn more about how you can contribute to Sonshine’s Indigenous programming, let us know!