June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to reflect on and celebrate the contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people. National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on June 21 and there is also Aboriginal Awareness Week Calgary from June 16 to 22. During this month and beyond, it’s important to take time to learn about, acknowledge and appreciate Indigenous culture and history.
Here are some upcoming events where you can learn more about Indigenous culture and stories this month.
National Indigenous History Month Events with the Calgary Public Library
When: Multiple dates
The Calgary Public Library, which offers educational resources on Indigenous culture and history, is holding several events over National Indigenous History Month. Tune in for an online session about Indigenous sport heroes on June 7, attend a drum circle event on June 7 or 21, learn about Métis history and jigging on June 10 and more.
Indigenous History Month Celebrations at Southcentre Mall
When: June 3 to 23
Authentically Indigenous has once again teamed up with Southcentre Mall to celebrate Indigenous peoples and culture with a multi-week exhibition in the mall’s Centre Court. Guests can learn about Indigenous culture and history through exhibit features like a full-size tipi and a range of storytelling sessions. There will also be an artisan market on June 7 and 8.
100 Anderson Rd. S.E., southcentremall.com
Aboriginal Awareness Week Calgary
When: June 16 to 22
Aboriginal Awareness Week Calgary returns this year with the theme of “Inspiring Our Youth for Change.” In addition to an opening ceremony at Olympic Plaza on June 17, you can head to Enmax Park on June 22 for a full day of activities, like an Indigenous arts and craft market, a hand games tournament, a traditional powwow, a free barbecue and more.
Campfire Chats: A Celebration of Indigenous Music and Culture
When: June 21
The University of Calgary and Heritage Park are honouring National Indigenous Peoples Day with the latest edition of Campfire Chats. Running from 4 to 6:30 p.m., the free event focuses on Indigenous music and culture with performances by Eya-Hey Nakoda, Armond Duck Chief, Craig Ginn, The Denby Family and Olivia Tail Feathers.
Heritage Park Plaza, ucalgary.ca
OHSOTO’KINO: Indigenous Peoples Day at Studio Bell
When: June 21
Head to the National Music Centre (NMC) to celebrate Indigenous dance, music and song on June 21. Starting at 1 p.m., guests will be treated to a variety of live performances by nêhiyaw singer-songwriter Wyatt C. Louis, Cree Métis recording artist/songwriter, poet and filmmaker Sandra Sutter, and Inuvaluit singer-songwriter Willie Thrasher performing with Linda Saddleback. While you’re there, check out the updated version of NMC’s Speak Up! exhibition, which will feature four additional Indigenous artists/groups starting on July 19: Willie Thrasher, Leela Gilday, Edmund Bull and The Bearhead Sisters. Admission to NMC is free on June 21.
Studio Bell, 850 4 St. S.E., 403-543-5115, studiobell.ca
Walk for Reconciliation 2024
When: June 21
On June 21, you can join the 2024 Walk for Reconciliation, which travels from the Harry Hays Building to The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland from 8 to 9 a.m. The walk will be followed by an outdoor gathering at 10 a.m. featuring drumming, dance performances and speeches. The first 200 participants can also enjoy a catered community meal at 9:30 a.m. and there will be a screening of the What is Reconciliation? documentary at 1 p.m.
Walk starts at Harry Hays Building, 220 4 Ave. S.E., ends at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland, 750 9 Ave. S.E., theconfluence.ca
National Indigenous Peoples Day Tipi Raising
When: June 21
Arts Commons has partnered with Garret C. Smith and his family for a tipi raising at Olympic Plaza. The free event runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will also feature cultural stories from Elders. You can RSVP online.
Olympic Plaza, artscommons.ca
Traditional Round Dance
When: June 21
Join the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary for a traditional round dance at Salvation Army Community Services. The day will also feature traditional games, a performance by the Siksika Youth Band, a youth hand drum song contest and other activities.
Salvation Army Community Services, 100, 5115 17 Ave. S.E., afccalgary.org
Tipi Raising
When: June 23
Blackfoot Elder Joyce Ussangahgee (Always Singing Woman) Healy is guiding a tipi raising at the Lougheed House this month. The free event will also feature Indigenous games and stories.
Lougheed House, 707 13 Ave. S.W., 403-244-6333, lougheedhouse.com