Strathcona County celebrates National Indigenous History Month

June is National Indigenous History Month, and Strathcona County is proud to honour the heritage, culture, history, resilience and achievements of Indigenous Peoples.

“Strathcona County is committed to reconciliation and fostering healthier relationships with Indigenous Peoples,” says Mayor Rod Frank. “Celebrating National Indigenous History Month is an important step in building these relationships and understanding how we can best support Indigenous People on our truth and reconciliation journey.”

Throughout June, Strathcona County is privileged to welcome Indigenous leaders and knowledge keepers who will lead free events at the Library, the Ardrossan Farmers’ Market and online. Events include opportunities for all ages to learn about and participate in traditional Indigenous practices including planting, art, storytelling and healing.

“The Library is pleased to host the Indigenous Knowledge Keepers in Residence Series,” says Sharon Siga, Strathcona County Library CEO. “Learning about Indigenous history, culture, heritage and practices is important to our relationships with Indigenous Peoples and keeping these traditions alive.”

Residents can further their learning throughout the year by borrowing books from the Library written by First Nations, Métis and Inuit authors, or exploring the amiskwaciy (Beaver Hills) biosphere, a UNESCO reserve in Strathcona County.

In addition, the Strathcona County Indigenous Advisory Committee is extending a warm invitation to all Strathcona County Indigenous residents and their allies to an informal tea and bannock get-together to connect with one another on June 18, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the east plaza of the Community Centre, 401 Festival Lane.

Strathcona County resides on Treaty Six territory, the traditional lands and gathering place for many Indigenous people, including the Nehiyawak, Nakota Sioux, Saulteaux, Denesuliné, Blackfoot and Métis.

For more information on National Indigenous Peoples Day and events, visit strathcona.ca/IndigenousConnections.

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Contact: Strathcona County Communications, 780-410-6595