Clarington, Oshawa and Canada celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day

National Indigenous Day is celebrated across the nation today, a recognition of the history and accomplishments of First Nations, Metis and Innuit people in Canada.

“The rich Indigenous traditions and cultures have shaped the identity of our country, and that diverse and resilient heritage continues to influence our community now,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster. “Let’s come together today, in mutual respect and understanding, to consider our shared responsibility to uphold the Treaty rights and obligations and recognize the fundamental contributions of Indigenous identities, their way of life, and their right to traditional lands, territories, and natural resources.”

“Miigwetch.”

June is also celebrated as Indigenous History Month and Clarington, as well as Oshawa and other communities in Durham, have been marking the occasions with a series of events to honour the rich culture of the original people of Turtle Island.

Oshawa kicked off the month with the inaugural Indigenous Cultural Celebration at Ed Broadbent Park on the waterfront June 1 with a variety of performances and interactive workshops happening led by various First Nations, Inuit and Métis presenters and storytellers.