Indigenous Recognized Events

Indigenous Languages Day (March 31)
Acknowledges the importance of Indigenous languages and their preservation, as part of cultural identity and resilience.  Click the title/link above for information.

National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG)
Red Dress Day, also known as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit People, is observed on May 5th.  The day honours and brings awareness to the thousands of Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people who have been subject to disproportionate violence in Canada.  Click the title/link above for information and history.

Pow Wow on Walpole Island First Nation
Every year the Walpole Island First Nation hold a Pow-Wow in the Spring.  Click the title/link above to view the Walpole Island First Nation event page on their website.

National Indigenous History Month (June)
June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. It's a time to honour the stories, achievements and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues to impact the evolving Canada.  Click the title/link above for information.

International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples (August 9)
This United Nations’ day raises awareness and protects the rights of the world’s Indigenous population.   Click the title/link above for information.


Pow Wow on Delaware Nation
Every year the Delaware Nation holds a Pow Wow during Labour Day Weekend.  Click the title/link above for information.  


National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30)
Observed on September 30, this day honours the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities.  It serves as a day of reflection and a commitment to reconciliation.  Click the title/link above for information.


Orange Shirt Day (September 30)
Also on September 30, this day raises awareness about the history and legacies of the residential school system in Canada.  Participants wear orange shirts to honour Indigenous children who were sent to residential schools.  Click the title/link above for information.

In 2016, Ontario passed the first legislation of its kind in Canada declaring the first full week of November as Treaties Recognition Week.  This annual event honours the importance of Treaties and helps students and residents of Ontario learn more about Treaty rights and relationships. By learning more about our collective Treaty rights and obligations, we can create greater understanding and nurture relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Click the title/link above for information and history. 
Links:
Maurice Switzer Presentation on Treaty Recognition
Resources for Treaties Recognition Week from Mohawk College

Indigenous Veterans Day (November 8)
Celebrated on November 8, this day recognizes and honours the contributions and sacrifices of Indigenous veterans in Canada.  Click the title/link above for information.

Louis Riel Day (November 16)
Commemorates the life and legacy of Métis leader Louis Riel, a key figure in the struggle for Métis rights and the founder of Manitoba.  Click the title/link above for information.