Each year, Canada celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. This is a day for Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. The Government of Canada chose June 21, summer solstice, because for generations many Indigenous peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near the longest day of the year.
Ordinarily the day is marked with events such as family and community gatherings, traditional meals, dances and opportunities to engage with the broader Canadian community. In 2020, due to the need for social distancing, such events were cancelled but the day still presented an opportunity for Canadians to learn about the unique perspectives and cultures of Indigenous peoples through various media such as documentaries, live streaming events, or reading a book by an Inuit, Métis or First Nations author.
Canada’s natural gas and oil industry acknowledges the importance of its relationships with Indigenous communities and joins in celebrating the contribution of Indigenous peoples to Canada’s culture and heritage.
