JUNE 21, 2021

Reflecting upon Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

June is National Indigenous History Month – a time for all Canadians to reflect, recognize and learn more about the long-standing and diverse cultures, histories, sacrifices, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada.

Recognized as Indigenous peoples, each have their own distinctly unique heritage, language, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs. This year, National Indigenous History Month is dedicated to the missing children, families left behind, and the survivors of residential schools*.

National Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated on June 21, the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. This significant day celebrates the heritage, cultures and achievements of Indigenous Communities in Canada and their strength, resilience, and hope for a prosperous future**.

Visual Elements Illustrating Indigenous Cultures.

The Government of Canada has released a visual description of the various elements that represent Indigenous cultures in Canada, as well as other resources to learn more about National Indigenous History Month. Some of these elements are:

  • The Eagle: represents the First Nations peoples.

  • The Narwhal: represents the Inuit peoples.

  • The Violin: represents the Métis peoples.

Alongside the three icons representing First Nations, Inuit and Métis people, you will also find:

  • The Sun: representing the summer solstice.

  • The Four Elements of nature: earth, water, fire and air.

  • Multicolour Smoke: a reminder of Indigenous spirituality but also the colours of the rainbow – symbol of inclusion and diversity of all First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and their members.

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Truth and Reconciliation Commission Demands Action

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (2008-2015) was established to document the history and lasting impacts of the Canadian Residential School system on Indigenous students and their families. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) highlight a dark chapter in Canadian history and the trauma experienced by Indigenous communities due to the Residential school system. The TRC has made 94 Calls to Action in order to advance the process of reconciliation and redress the unfathomable impacts of the Residential Schools. The 94 Calls to Action urge all levels of government to work together to dismantle the discriminatory practices against Indigenous communities and support Canada’s Indigenous communities.

Recognition of Indigenous Communities  

 As a condominium home builder operating primarily in the Greater Toronto Area, we recognize that we are on unceded traditional First Nations territory. On Friday, June 25, we will be hosting  a virtual Indigenous Cooking Fusion Class for employees with Chef Wolfman, an internationally recognized expert in wild game and traditional Aboriginal cuisine and member of the Xaxli’p First Nation in BC. For each employee who participates in this event, we will make a donation to the Indspire Foundation, a charity focused on the education of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people for the long-term benefit of these individuals, their families and communities. Although we are taking necessary steps to learn more about how we can support and empower Indigenous peoples across Canada, we understand the dedicated work that goes into reconciliation will forever remain as we continue to reside on these lands and are committed to progress.

*Sources:

https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1621447127773/1621447157184** https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1100100013718/1534874583157*** https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1466616436543/1534874922512

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