What a Day to Celebrate!
Written by Cassie Licari & Dominique Houle on 21/06/10
Photo by Incurable Hippie on Flickr
Today is National Aboriginal Day in Canada. On this day, we encourage Canadians to recognize the many different Aboriginal cultures that make up our great country, along with their valuable role in the molding of Canadian culture in areas such as the environment, agriculture and the arts (Canadian Heritage).
In 1982 the National Indian Brotherhood first called for June 21st to be a day of celebration for Aboriginals across Canada. In 1995 it was requested to be a national holiday to honour their contributions and in 1996, June 21st was officially declared National Aboriginal Day. From then on, events are held all across Canada every year on this special day, to honour Aboriginals of all cultures (Indian and Northern Affairs Canada).
June 21st also marks the beginning of Celebrate Canada, which is an 11 day commemoration beginning with National Aboriginal Day and continuing with the celebration of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, Multiculturalism Day and Canada Day (Canadian Heritage).
National Aboriginal Day began in 1996 as a way for Aboriginal peoples to share their deep historic roots with others. Communities all over Canada will be celebrating today with song, dance and other exciting events to help bring Canadians even closer together to enjoy our country’s culture (Indian and Northern Affairs Canada).
Take part in this exciting and educational experience in your community! To see what events are happening in your province or territory, click here! And check out this website for event ideas for communities, schools and youth, etc.