Together, with Open Hearts and Minds
Every June since 2009, Canadians have come together to celebrate National Indigenous History Month – a time to recognize and honour the rich history, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples through celebrations, learning and community connection.
This year, under the theme “Together, with Open Hearts and Minds,” we recommit to listening deeply, learning truthfully and walking in partnership with Indigenous Peoples in the spirit of reconciliation and respect.
How Did It All Begin?
National Indigenous History Month began with a simple but powerful idea – that Indigenous Peoples deserve more than a single day of recognition. That idea turned into a letter- and email-writing campaign led by Joely BigEagle-Kequahtooway, then-President of the Regina Aboriginal Professionals Association, and her husband.
They saw the impact of generational trauma in their community and sought to create something positive, something larger and more empowering than National Indigenous Peoples Day alone. Inspired by the success of Black History Month in Canada, BigEagle-Kequahtooway envisioned a month-long celebration dedicated to Indigenous stories, achievements, artists, matriarchs, elders and youth.
Their efforts were first embraced in Regina and across Saskatchewan in 2007. Two years later, a motion received unanimous consent in the House of Commons, officially declaring June as National Aboriginal History Month – later renamed National Indigenous History Month in 2017.
In BigEagle-Kequahtooway’s words:
“June is about recognizing the achievements of Indigenous people but also understanding what happened on this land before we can even get to reconciliation. We need to talk about some of the truths that have happened in the past to understand why we are where we’re at.”
How Does BGC Ottawa Celebrate?
At BGC Ottawa, we know that reconciliation begins with action – and with a commitment to open hearts and minds. We recognize that Indigenous children and youth continue to face barriers, and we are working every day to break those down by offering free, inclusive and supportive programming to all young people in our community.
Through initiatives like ABC Club, Art Now, Debate Club and our Diversity Library, we provide Indigenous Members with spaces to share, reflect and thrive, while also giving non-Indigenous Members opportunities to learn, ask questions and build cultural understanding.
We celebrate Indigenous voices not just in June, but year-round – through the staff we hire, the resources we share and the training we deliver. We ensure Indigenous cultures are not just acknowledged but celebrated.
In June, our Clubhouses traditionally come alive with celebration and education:
- We share Indigenous stories and experiences
- We host activities rooted in culture and creativity
- We serve traditional Indigenous dishes
- We play Indigenous music and showcase Indigenous art
- We welcome Elders, Knowledge Keepers and Cultural Experts into our spaces
Land Acknowledgements are a foundational part of our daily practice. They are more than a statement; they are a commitment to truth, history and future action.
Days of Significance Recognized by BGC Ottawa
At BGC Ottawa, we celebrate and honour several important Days of Significance throughout the year that reflect our ongoing commitment to reconciliation, equity and inclusion. These days offer meaningful opportunities for education, reflection and community-building:
- International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
A global call to dismantle systemic racism and promote equity for all. - Red Dress Day
We honour the lives of those who have been taken and recommit to justice and change. - Bear Witness Day
A day to support Jordan’s Principle, which ensures First Nations children receive the care and services they need without delay. Named in memory of Jordan River Anderson, this day calls on all Canadians to “bear witness” to the importance of equitable access to health, education and social services for Indigenous children. - National Indigenous History Month
A full month of celebration, learning and cultural pride. - National Indigenous Peoples Day
A day to honour the heritage, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. - National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day)
A solemn day of remembrance for survivors of Residential Schools and a collective call for reconciliation.
These days are woven into our Club culture with education, programming and conversations that bring youth, staff and families together – with open hearts and minds.
What’s Happening in Ottawa This June?
Ottawa is proud to host a range of vibrant, educational and community-driven events in celebration of National Indigenous History Month. From art and music to storytelling and ceremony, these events offer powerful opportunities to connect with Indigenous cultures, histories and voices.
Here are just a few highlights happening in the capital this June:
Cultural Teachings and Ceremonies at the Wabano Centre
📍 Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health
📅 Throughout June
💰 Must be registered with Wabano
Participate in cultural workshops, teachings, and community ceremonies led by Elders and Knowledge Keepers. From drumming circles to traditional medicine walks, Wabano offers a space for deep connection and learning in a spirit of healing and unity.
Mādahòkì Farm
📍 Mādahòkì Farm
📅 Thursday to Sunday | 🕐 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
💰 Varies based on experience
Experience authentic Indigenous culture at Mādahòkì Farm, located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Algonquin peoples. Through traditional farming, cultural programming and sustainable practices, the farm fosters community connection and honours Indigenous knowledge.
Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival
📍 Wesley Clover Parks
📅 June 21–22 | 🕐 Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. | Sunday: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
💰 Free admission
Celebrate Indigenous cultures with a weekend of music, dance, art, food and family-friendly programming. This award-winning festival includes Pow Wow competitions, artisan markets, culinary experiences and youth activities. A must-attend event that brings together community, tradition and creativity.
National Indigenous History Month: Author Phyllis Webstad
📍 Ottawa Public Library – Main Branch
📅 June 26 | 🕐 6:30 p.m.
💰 Free with registration
Join Phyllis Webstad, founder of Orange Shirt Day and author of The Orange Shirt Story, for an evening of storytelling and reflection. Webstad will share her personal journey, the legacy of Residential Schools and the movement toward truth and reconciliation. A meaningful opportunity to hear directly from one of Canada’s leading voices for Indigenous justice and education.
What Can You Do?
Help us continue to open doors – and ensure they stay open for generations to come. At home, in schools and in communities, we invite you to learn, reflect and act.
Explore these valuable resources to deepen your understanding of Indigenous histories and cultures:
- Government of Canada
- Indigenous Services Canada
- Library and Archives Canada
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
- Parks Canada
For young learners:
- CBC Kids: Games, videos and stories about Indigenous cultures
- Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame: Honouring Indigenous athletes and role models
- Indigenous Arts & Stories: Celebrating the creativity of Indigenous youth
For Indigenous families and community members, Ottawa offers many spaces for connection, celebration and support:
- Canadian Museum of History
- City of Ottawa (Indigenous Relations)
- Crisis & Trauma Resource Institute
- Indigenous Experience Ontario
- Know History
- National Arts Centre
- Odawa Native Friendship Centre
- Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition
- Ottawa Public Library
- Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival
- Tungasuvvingat Inuit
- Wabano Centre
We Walk Together
Together, with Open Hearts and Minds, we move forward. We honour the knowledge of the past, the strength of the present and the promise of the future – guided by the truths shared with us by Indigenous Peoples and communities.
To learn more about BGC Ottawa’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion efforts, please visit:
👉 www.bgcottawa.org/equity.
Let’s keep learning, listening and acting – together, with open hearts and minds.
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