Statement on NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY 2021

June 21, 2021

The month of June is designated as National Indigenous Peoples Month, with the June 21 designated specifically as a day to celebrate Indigenous Peoples. The Centre acknowledges that Survivors, Indigenous community members and Indigenous Peoples across Canada, who have direct ties to the residential school system, may experience this day differently than those who are just beginning their learning. The Centre recognizes the diversity in backgrounds, perspectives and ways of knowing of all those engaging with National Indigenous Peoples Day 2021.

While the goal of the month is both to uplift Indigenous voices and educate non-Indigenous people, the Centre recognizes that this year these conversations will feel much heavier for most Indigenous Peoples and communities impacted by the recent discoveries in Kamloops, Brandon,and elsewhere. 

On this day and always, the Centre stands with Survivors and families who have always known what the rest of the world is only just now coming to terms with. Resilience and strengthening cultural practices are important in connection with witnessing and truth-telling, and necessary for many with the grief and heartbreak for these losses. With the authors of “Pulling Together: A Guide for Leaders and Administrators” we value Richard Wagemese’s meditation from his 2016 book Embers.

Since before confederation, Indigenous Peoples have worked tirelessly against the massive forces of colonial violence, structural racism and injustice. Today is a good day to honour that vital work, and to witness and be mindful of the ways in which the federal government has failed to properly address the ongoing impacts of the residential school system, the Sixties scoop, the child welfare system, and other critical issues affecting the health and wellness of Indigenous people and communities. For all, this could be a time to reflect on the efforts and accomplishments of the generations before us. 

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada released its 94 Calls to Action six years ago, and while Indigenous Peoples and communities have continued to push for progress more action is needed. Calls are going out for dedicated resources from the federal government. Similarly, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) released its 231 Calls to Justice two years ago, however, little progress has been made. Indigenous communities are still disproportionally affected by high rates of violence, incarceration and homelessness. Indigenous children are still disproportionately apprehended into custody and taken from their homes. Many Indigenous communities are still without access to clean drinking water.  

This is a day for all Canadians to celebrate, uplift, and support the diversity and resilience of Indigenous cultures and communities. However, we are reminded that today must also be a day that we make time to pause and reflect on the legacy and ongoing impacts of the residential school system and colonialism. For some people and communities, it is a time of mourning and they may be unable to celebrate at this moment. Indigenous Peoples have an intergenerational legacy of reframing complex moments of commemoration, grief and celebration to assert their sovereignty and demand recognition of their rights.   

To engage in meaningful dialogue and enact change, we must confront and examine the historical attitudes and root causes that led us here – ignorance, racism, sexism, discrimination. All citizens – particularly UBC students, faculty, and staff – must think critically about how systems of oppression intersect with our identities, and most importantly, we must act. Self-education is crucial, especially when gaps are identified, to show support when called upon, and to heal and practice self-care when necessary.  

With this in mind, the Centre is highlighting some suggested resources for education, advocacy, and wellness to aid in this work. Consider making a commitment to future events throughout the year. 

For Indigenous people, perhaps consider an intergenerational commitment to seek hope and insight from Indigenous people who are outside of your usual circle. 

For non-Indigenous people, consider seeking the Indigenous voices in your circles and scheduling Indigenous events, podcasts, and books into your life.  

 “Hope and change are always the purpose in doing this work, and real change requires a foundation of truth and knowledge. “ – Their Voices Will Guide Us – Student and Youth Engagement Guide.  

Resources for Continued Learning

Content Warning: Some of the resources collected here deal explicitly with impacts of the Residential School System on individuals and communities, as well as violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+.