National Aboriginal Day, now recognized as National Indigenous Peoples Day, is a Canadian holiday that celebrates and honors the heritage, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. It is observed annually on June 21, coinciding with the summer solstice—a day of cultural significance for many Indigenous communities.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: June 21
- Tagged as: Celebration of Indigenous culture and heritage
- What’s the hashtag?: #IndigenousPeoplesDay
- When was it founded?: 1996
- Who founded it?: Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc
History
The idea for a national day to celebrate Indigenous peoples began in 1982 when the National Indian Brotherhood proposed “National Aboriginal Solidarity Day.” In 1990, Quebec became the first province to recognize June 21 as a day to celebrate Indigenous culture. Following recommendations from the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples and the Sacred Assembly chaired by Elijah Harper in 1995, Governor General Roméo LeBlanc proclaimed June 21 as National Aboriginal Day in 1996. In 2017, it was renamed National Indigenous Peoples Day to reflect inclusive terminology.
Timeline
- 1982: National Indian Brotherhood proposes “National Aboriginal Solidarity Day.”
- 1990: Quebec recognizes June 21 for celebrating Indigenous culture.
- 1995: Sacred Assembly calls for a national holiday.
- 1996: Proclamation of National Aboriginal Day.
- 2017: Renamed National Indigenous Peoples Day.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 21 | Saturday |
| 2026 | June 21 | Sunday |
| 2027 | June 21 | Monday |
| 2028 | June 21 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | June 21 | Thursday |
| 2030 | June 21 | Friday |
Observed
National Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated across Canada with ceremonies, performances, art displays, and cultural events that highlight the unique contributions of Indigenous communities.
Fun Facts About
- The day aligns with the summer solstice, symbolically important to many Indigenous cultures.
- It was first celebrated as a statutory holiday in Northwest Territories in 2001.
- Events include traditional dances, storytelling, and feasts.
Quiz
- When is National Indigenous Peoples Day observed?
- Who proclaimed it as a national day in Canada?
- What year was it renamed from National Aboriginal Day?
(Answers: 1. June 21; 2. Roméo LeBlanc; 3. 2017)
FAQs
Q: Is National Indigenous Peoples Day a statutory holiday everywhere in Canada?
A: No, it is a statutory holiday only in Northwest Territories and Yukon.
Q: Why is June 21 significant for this celebration?
A: It coincides with the summer solstice, a culturally significant time for many Indigenous groups.
Importance of National Aboriginal Day
This day fosters understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures and acknowledges their invaluable contributions to Canadian society.
Related
- National Truth and Reconciliation Day (September 30)
- Orange Shirt Day (September 30)
- National Indigenous History Month (June)