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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. National Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated on June 21 and coincides with the summer solstice, a day that holds cultural significance for many Indigenous groups.

We reflect on this time to recognize the significance of the change of seasons. “The summer solstice brings ceremony and harvesting, a time to give thanks and to be with family, friends, and loved ones,” says Rhea Dupuis, Director of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation at ����SM. “The importance of ceremony at this time of year cannot be overstated, as it represents ongoing learning, celebration, and the honouring of tradition.”

Excitedly, Dupuis emphasizes, “This week also marks a significant moment of success as we celebrate OC graduates at convocation. Indigenous ways of knowing have been woven into each ceremony.”

“We encourage everyone to get involved, participate in whatever way you can, and take this opportunity to reflect, learn, share, and teach others,” concludes Dupuis. “Let us walk together on this journey of reconciliation.”

The College encourages students, staff, faculty and the broader community to honour National Indigenous Peoples Day by considering attending a local event, supporting a local Indigenous business, and taking time for individual reflection and learning.

Indigenous Peoples Day events happening in the community:

• Vernon - June 21, 2024 (5 a.m. – 4 p.m.) – Okanagan Indian Band is hosting Kn Sqilxw Day at Komasket Park in Vernon.
• Penticton - June 21, 2024 - Ooknakane Friendship Centre is hosting a Sunrise Ceremony (4 a.m. – 6 a.m.) and afternoon activities (1 p.m. – 6 p.m.) at Okanagan Lake Park in Penticton.
• Kelowna - June 21, 2024 (10 a.m. - 7 p.m.) – Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society is hosting a Turtle Island Festival at the 400-500 block of Leon Avenue, Kelowna.

Learn more about the day and how to get involved here: .

����SM Staff Learning Opportunity:

Take the first step on your educational journey:

• The Four Seasons of Reconciliation training is available to all ����SM members through MyPD. This training provides a comprehensive education in line with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 Calls to Action aimed at promoting a renewed relationship between Indigenous peoples and Canada through transformative multi-media learning.

����SM respectfully acknowledges that our Penticton, Kelowna and Vernon campuses are located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan People, our Salmon Arm campus is located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwépemc, and our Revelstoke centre is located on the traditional and unceded territories of the Ktunaxa, Secwépemc, Sinixt and Syilx Okanagan Peoples.

Learn more about Indigenous Services at OC here: Indigenous Services