National Indigenous History Month is a time for learning about, appreciating and acknowledging the contributions First Nations, Inuit and Métis people have made in shaping Canada. Explore how Calgary is appreciating Indigenous history, diversity, and experiences with some of these events and resources.
Ways for you to appreciate and learn about the contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people
National Indigenous History Month is a time to celebrate and commemorate the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of Indigenous Peoples from coast to coast to coast.
Explore how Calgary is appreciating Indigenous history, diversity, and experiences with the content and resources below.
Community events to attend
- Calgary Public Library‘s National Indigenous History Month Kick Off with a round dance, tipi raising and teachings, traditional Dene and Inuit games, art followed be a screening of Jordan River Anderson’s “The Messenger | The Confluence on June 1, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame is celebrating Indigenous sport heroes and their contributions to Canada’s rich sporting history | Virtual on June 7, 10 a.m.
- Calgary Public Library presents Secret Path with Mike Downie: exploring Chanie Wenjack’s story with residential schools in Canada and understanding the importance of reconciliation | Patricia A. Whelan Performance Hall (Central Library) on June 15, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
- Stardale Women’s Group invites you to their inaugural networking event, Voices of the Future in honour of National Indigenous People’s Day | The Ampersand Conference Centre on June 21, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Aboriginal Awareness Week Calgary presents National Indigenous Family Day & POWWOW with the theme “Inspiring Our Youth for Change” | ENMAX Park (Elbow River Camp) on June 22, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Books to read
The Prairie Indigenous eBook Collection brings together over 300 titles from publishers in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. This significant addition to the Alberta eBooks repository increases access to stories by Indigenous authors and writings about Indigenous culture, serving as the first of its kind in Canada.
Watch CBC’s Indigenous Stories Collection
National Indigenous History Month is a time to celebrate storytellers and acknowledge the contributions First Nations, Inuit and Métis people have made in shaping Canada. This month, we have lots of great content including the Indigenous Stories collection on CBC Gem including titles like BEARS’ LAIR.
Step into the Bears’ Lair, where hopeful Indigenous Entrepreneurs pitch their ideas and hone their business skills. Waterman – Duke: Ambassador of Aloha follows the journey of Olympic medallist Duke Kahanamoku.
From the Airwaves
Calgary Eyeopener8:36Running Rabbit
We talk to a MMA fighter from the Siksika First Nation, who’s the subject of a new documentary.
Calgary Eyeopener6:50Stephen Kakfwi
A former premier of the Northwest Territories – who is also a residential school survivor – is sharing his story and songs tonight at the Calgary Public Library. We talk to Stephen Kakfwi about his new book “Stoneface: A Defiant Dene”.
The Homestretch6:25Indigenous artist in residence
We meet the Calgary Public Library’s newest Indigenous artist in residence.
The Homestretch4:50Indigenous warming centre
We hear about Calgary’s first Indigenous warming centre.
The Homestretch8:28Eugene Brave Rock
We speak with Eugene Brave Rock, a Hollywood actor from the Blood Reserve, who’s just received an award for his work.
Have an event or resource to add? Email us at commscgy@cbc.ca.