June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to recognize the rich history, heritage, resilience, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people. Explore our collection to honour and learn from Indigenous voices and stories.
Indigenous Heritage
National Indigenous Languages Day
Celebrate Indigenous languages! National Indigenous Languages Day, March 31, raises awareness of the need for language preservation and the continuing role Indigenous languages play in sustaining and revitalizing communities.
A tribute to Indigenous veterans
Indigenous Veterans Day on November 8 is a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the remarkable contributions and sacrifices of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit individuals during Canada's military operations and peacekeeping projects.
Indigenous service members displayed remarkable resilience, overcoming language barriers, cultural disparities and significant journeys to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces. Post-war, many Indigenous war veterans did not receive the same care as others.
Today, Indigenous individuals continue a legacy of service. Take a moment to acknowledge service and sacrifice with a title from this list.
Treaties Recognition Week reading list
November 5-11 is Treaties Recognition Week. This week recognizes the importance of learning about the treaties between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, their history and treaty rights and obligations. Knowledge of these documents and their legal frameworks is essential to reconciliation. To learn more, check out the titles on this list.
First Nation Communities READ
Check out some of the titles on the First Nation Communities Read (FNCR) shortlists! FNCR celebrates the very best of Indigenous literature across Turtle Island. The program encourages family literacy, intergenerational storytelling and intergenerational knowledge transmission. FNCR also helps to increase awareness of the importance of First Nation, Metis and Inuit writing, illustration and publishing.
The winners were announced during First Nation Public Library Week during the first week of October. Be sure to check out the complete 2023-24 Adult/YA list and Children’s list.