June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. Established in 1996, it is an opportunity to learn about and celebrate the diverse cultures of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. This day also takes place during National Indigenous History Month, which means there will be many celebratory events and educational activities happening access the province. To get started, check out our list of things to do or topics to explore this summer.
Engage in local events and activities
In honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day, many municipalities and Indigenous organizations are holding special celebrations or community events. Check your local city, village, Indigenous Friendship Centre or town’s event page to find out what is happening in your region this month. In the meantime, browse a few links to Indigenous-led events or activities near you.
Indigenous Events in B.C.
Check out the list of events and activities open to the public.
Talking Stick Festival 2023 - Full Circle
Find dates and venue locations.
Points of Interest on Vancouver Island
Add an extra stop to your next visit to Vancouver Island.
Learn about Indigenous languages in B.C.
Our province is home to more than 34 Indigenous languages. Because some Indigenous languages have few living fluent speakers, there are many revitalization projects currently underway – both building the vitality of cherished languages and helping increase the number of speakers! We encourage you to take a moment to discover a little bit of the rich history behind these diverse languages.
First Peoples’ Map of B.C.
View the map of the regions in which distinct Indigenous languages were and are spoken across what is now known as British Columbia.
Indigenous Languages – Learning and Teaching Resources
Find online and community Indigenous language programs, including children and adult classes.
Indigenous Languages in Canada
Learn about the 12 distinct language families across the country.
Listen to or read Indigenous stories
Storytelling is a foundational Indigenous practice. It is part of a time-honoured oral tradition of passing along history, cultural knowledge, genealogies, teachings and more. You’re invited to take part by listening to (or reading) Indigenous stories from your region – and we’ve selected a few resources to help you get started.
Indigenous Storyteller in Residence | Vancouver Public Library (VPL)
Attend an event with Les George, the VPL’s resident Indigenous storyteller.
In the Spotlight | WorkBC
Read three new inspiring Indigenous stories of achievement on the WorkBC In the Spotlight blog.
Map of Indigenous Authors in B.C.
Interested in more? Explore the map of Indigenous authors in B.C. to find a new favourite writer/storyteller from your community.