National Indigenous Peoples Day is a significant celebration recognizing and honoring the cultures, heritage, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Indigenous peoples of Canada. This special day provides an opportunity for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to come together, share traditions, and celebrate the rich diversity of Indigenous cultures.
Quick Facts
When is it?: June 21st annually (Summer Solstice)
Tagged as: #NationalIndigenousPeoplesDay
What’s the hashtag?: #NIPD
When was it founded?: 1996
Who founded it?: Governor General of Canada Roméo LeBlanc
History
Initially self-declared as “Indian Day” in 1945 by Jules Sioui and chiefs across North America, the celebration evolved through various stages. The date June 21st was chosen due to its cultural significance as the Summer solstice, traditionally a time when many Indigenous communities celebrate their heritage.
Timeline
- 1945: First self-declared as “Indian Day”
- 1982: National Indian Brotherhood calls for National Aboriginal Solidarity Day
- 1990: Quebec becomes first province to establish the celebration
- 1996: Official recognition as National Aboriginal Day
- 2017: Name changed to National Indigenous Peoples Day
Dates for Next Year
| Year | Month | 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 |
How It’s Observed
Communities across Canada organize cultural events, traditional ceremonies, pow-wows, and educational activities. The day features Indigenous music, dance, art exhibitions, and traditional food celebrations.
Fun Facts About NIPD
- It coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year
- It’s a statutory holiday in Northwest Territories and Yukon
- Over 1.8 million people in Canada identify as First Nations, Inuit, and Métis
- The Aboriginal Peoples Television Network broadcasts an annual cultural gala
Quiz
- When is National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrated?
- In which year was it officially recognized?
- Which territories recognize it as a statutory holiday?
Answers:
- June 21st
- 1996
- Northwest Territories and Yukon
FAQs
- Is it a statutory holiday across Canada? No, only in NWT and Yukon
- Why June 21st? It coincides with the summer solstice
- Can non-Indigenous people participate? Yes, everyone is encouraged to participate
Related Celebrations
- International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
- National Indigenous History Month
- Orange Shirt Day
- Truth and Reconciliation Day
- Canadian Multiculturalism Day