Throughout the year, there are a number of significant dates that provide opportunities to learn more about First Nations, Inuit and Métis histories, traditions, and contemporary realities. This page provides links to information and resources for families. Additional resources are shared with staff to support classroom learning related to these topics.
September
Métis communities celebrate Powley Day each year on September 19th, marking the anniversary of the landmark Métis rights victory at the Supreme Court of Canada. Powley Day commemorates the most important Métis Rights recognition since the days of Louis Riel.
2023 marks 20 years since the Powley judgment was made by the Supreme Court of Canada on September 19, 2003. To mark this occasion, the first online screening of a new documentary, “The Métis Hunt for Justice - The Powley Story” will be provided by the Métis Nation of Ontario on Tuesday, September 19 at 6:00 p.m.
Resources:
September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day of mourning and remembrance for everyone, especially First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples, that offers an opportunity to reflect and honour survivors, their families, and communities. OCDSB students and staff will also mark National Truth and Reconciliation Week from September 23rd-27th. Learn more about what the OCDSB is doing, how you can take action, and how students and staff will be marking this date at school. Community and mental health resources are also available on this page.
October
Honouring Jordan River Anderson, who was born on October 22, 1999, Jordan’s Principle aims to ensure First Nations children can access public services without experiencing denials, delays or disruptions because they are First Nations.
Learn more about Jordan at these links:
November
November 8th is Indigenous Veterans Day. It is a time to remember and commemorate the stories and contributions of Indigenous veterans in wars and conflict past and present.
During the First World War (1914-1918) First Nations, Inuit, and Métis participation was proportionally higher than that of any other people in Canada, with one in three Indigenous males enlisting. In fact, on the Pikwakanagan First Nation community (Algonquins) on the shores of Golden Lake, all but three males enlisted. Many Indigenous women also served as nurses treating the wounded, and Indigenous soldiers earned more than 50 decorations for bravery.
More than 500 Indigenous soldiers died in World Wars I and II. More than 12,000 First Nations (Status and Non-Status), along with a large number of Inuit and Métis, left their homes and families to serve Canada in those two conflicts.
Following World War II, some Indigenous veterans returned from war and had lost their ‘status’, as they had been absent from their reserves for more than four years. This was a provision of the Indian Act at the time. Indigenous veterans were enfranchised, their sacrifices largely forgotten while their rights and status as Indigenous Peoples were taken away.
Resources:
- Indigenous Veterans: Stories of Indigenous soldiers from World War I, World War II, and the Korean War
- From the Tundra to the Trenches: Memoir of an Inuit veteran of the Korean War, published after waiting for decades
- The Métis and the War of 1812
Each November, Treaties Recognition Week provides an opportunity for everyone in Ontario to learn more about and recognize the importance of treaty rights and relationships.
Treaties are the legally binding agreements that set out the rights, responsibilities and relationships of First Nations and the federal and provincial governments. Ontario is covered by 46 treaties and other agreements, like land purchases made by the Crown. However, treaty-making preceded North American settlement: Indigenous Nations had Treaty Agreements with one another before Europeans arrived.
Treaties matter to everyone in Canada; we are all Treaty People. They represent a mutual commitment to building a prosperous future for everybody. Both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities have a responsibility of knowing and upholding Treaty obligations. It is important to remember that treaties are as much a part of today as when they were made, often referred to as living documents.
As you may know, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board’s schools and administrative buildings are located on the unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg Nation. But what does “unceded” mean, and how does it relate to treaties? Per Canada’s Constitution, unceded territory means the Aboriginal Title to the area has not been surrendered by an Indigenous nation or acquired by the Crown. Therefore in the Ottawa area where we live and attend school, the Crown does not hold title to the land and there is no land cession treaty. The Algonquin Anishinaabeg remain stewards of the lands, though the Supreme Court of Canada disputes this. Learn more in this report, particularly beginning on page 16.
Resources:
- Watch In Our Words and/or Trick or Treaty
- Read Where Sussex Drive Meets the Kichi Sibi: History and Pluralism at 330 Sussex, a report that details the history of the river and lands in this territory and the impact of colonialism on the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation
- Read books like Unsettling Canada or The Reconciliation Manifesto by Arthur Manuel, or listen to the Unsettling Canada episode of the Anti-Racist Educator Reads podcast.
- Read Whose Land Is It Anyway
- View Treaty Maps
- Discover Treaty Learning Resources
- Listen to Indigenous Voices on Treaties
- Watch In Conversation with Ray: Dish with One Spoon Wampum
International Inuit Day is celebrated each year on November 7. This is an opportunity to celebrate Inuit communities, learn more about their culture and history, and amplify their voices.
Inuit — Inuktitut for “the people” — are an Indigenous people, the majority of whom inhabit the northern regions of Canada. An Inuit person is known as an Inuk. The Inuit homeland is known as Inuit Nunangat, which refers to the land, water and ice contained in the Arctic region. (Source: Canadian Encyclopedia)
To learn more about Inuit culture and history, visit these links:
- Inuuqatigiit Centre for Inuit Children, Youth and Families
- Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami - About Canadian Inuit
- Inuit Circumpolar Council of Canada - Resources for Kids
- Arvaaq Books - a Nunavut-based educational publishing company with books in Inuktitut and English
- Tungasuvvingat Inuit
- Article: From igloo to internet — Inuit have come a long way in 60 years, says Piita Irniq
In Ontario Louis Riel Day is recognized on November 16th, the anniversary of Louis Riel’s execution in 1885. While Louis Riel Day commemorates one of the great tragedies of Canadian history, it is also a day to celebrate Métis people and their culture, and the continuing progress in fulfilling Riel’s dream with the Métis people taking their rightful place within Confederation.
The Métis Nation of Ontario has put together information and resources to assist with telling the story of Louis Riel and the Métis. To learn more, visit the links below.
Resources:
December
December 1 is Nunatsiavut Day. “Nunatsiavut” means "Our Beautiful Land" in Inuktitut.
Nunatsiavut Day acknowledges the effective date of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement, which came into effect in 2005.
The Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement recognized Inuit ownership of 15,800 square kilometres of land and the creation of the 9,600-square-kilometre Torngat Mountains National Park Reserve.
The Inuit territory of Nunatsiavut was established within the boundaries of Newfoundland and Labrador on Dec. 1, 2005. Nunatsiavut is the first of the Inuit regions in Canada to achieve self-government.
May
May 5th marks the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit, Transgender and Gender-diverse+ People (MMIWG2STGD+), also known as Red Dress Day. This solemn day is observed to honour and remember those who are missing or have been taken by violence, and to stand in solidarity with families, communities and survivors. It is also a powerful call to action—reminding us of our collective responsibility to seek justice, foster change and ensure safety for all Indigenous women, girls and 2STGD+ people.
The OCDSB acknowledges the profound pain and lasting impact felt by the many families who have lost daughters, sisters, mothers, aunties, grandmothers and Two-Spirit, Transgender and Gender-diverse+ loved ones.
Today—and every day—we reaffirm our commitment to implementing the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into MMIWG2S, and to engaging in sustained education and awareness efforts that support safety, healing and systemic change for First Nations, Métis and Inuit children, youth and families.
We believe that all Indigenous women, girls and 2STGD+ people have the right to be safe and to feel safe—wherever they are.
We stand together in honour, in remembrance and in the pursuit of justice, and we invite all members of our school communities to honour this day through learning, remembrance and meaningful action.
The following resources have been compiled by the OCDSB Indigenous Education Team to support families and staff in engaging with this day through personal learning, reflection and awareness.
Please note: These resources are not intended to be used as classroom teaching materials.
Mental Health and Crisis Support
We recognize that these topics may be emotionally difficult or triggering for some students, staff and families. Support is available:
- MMIWG 24/7 Crisis Line: 1-844-413-6649 – Available 24/7 for individuals affected by the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.
- MMIWG Health Support Services: 1-877-477-0775 – For counselling or mental health services related to MMIWG2S. Available Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Educational Resources
- Their Voices Will Guide Us – Youth Engagement Guide: A learning guide designed to encourage youth to engage with the MMIWG2S crisis and share messages of resilience and justice. Includes activities and prompts for family discussion.
- Human Rights Resource Guide on MMIWG2S: A comprehensive set of reports, articles, and educational tools offering context on the MMIWG2S crisis in Canada.
Arts & Awareness Activities
- The REDress Project by Jaime Black: A powerful art installation using red dresses to represent those who are missing and murdered. Families can participate by creating and displaying red dresses to raise awareness.
Books & Media for Families
- "Highway of Tears" by Jessica McDiarmid: A compelling investigative narrative focusing on the cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women along British Columbia’s Highway 16.
- "Forever Loved: Exposing the Hidden Crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls in Canada": An anthology that amplifies voices and stories central to understanding the MMIWG crisis.
- "Keetsahnak: Our Missing and Murdered Indigenous Sisters": A collection of essays exploring the crisis from a range of voices and perspectives, focusing on advocacy and community action.
Additional Resources
- Article: How Red Dresses Became a Symbol for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women: A CBC article explaining the origins and significance of the Red Dress movement.
- Reclaiming Power and Place: The Final Report of the National Inquiry into MMIWG: The final report of the National Inquiry, including the 231 Calls for Justice.
Together, we can take meaningful steps toward healing, awareness and justice.
Each year on May 10th, we recognize Bear Witness Day / Journée de l’ourson témoin. Bear Witness Day is Spirit Bear’s birthday, and honours the memory of Jordan River Anderson through the full and proper implementation of Jordan’s Principle.
Jordan’s Principle is a legal rule ensuring First Nations children can access the services they need when they need them. Leading up to May 10th, OCDSB staff, students, and families are invited to ensure that Jordan’s legacy is respected in the following ways:
- Reading the story “Spirit Bear and Children Make History”. Free copies in multiple languages are available.
- Watching the film “Spirit Bear and Children Make History”
- Watching the documentary, “Jordan River Anderson, The Messenger”
- Placing a teddy bear or a drawing of a bear in your window
- Posting on social media using the hashtags #JordansPrinciple and #BearWitnessDay
- And more - visit First Nations Child & Family Caring Society for more ideas and information.
Please join us and stand with First Nations children, families, and communities by supporting the full implementation of Jordan’s Principle on May 10th. You can also read more stories with Spirit Bear and friends all year long: visit the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society for more.
Every spring, Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians from communities, First Nations, governments, schools, colleges/universities, police forces and many other organizations across the country participate in the Moose Hide Campaign.
The inspiration for the campaign came to co-founders Paul Lacerte and his daughter Raven in 2011 during a moose hunt on their traditional Carrier territory along the Highway of Tears in Northern BC – where so many women have gone missing or been murdered. Since then, annual gatherings and ceremonial fasts have taken place and more than two million squares of moose hide have been distributed in thousands of participating communities, schools, and organizations nationwide.
The campaign is grounded in Indigenous ceremony and traditional ways of learning and healing. A cornerstone of the Moose Hide Campaign is the moose hide pin. Wearing the pin signifies your commitment to honour, respect, and protect the women and children in your life and speak out against gender-based and domestic violence.
People of all ages, genders and backgrounds are invited to take part in Moose Hide Campaign activities. You can learn more about the campaign and how to participate on the Moose Hide Campaign website.
June
National Indigenous History Month is a time to learn about and celebrate the brilliance of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. National Indigenous Peoples Day, celebrated on June 21 in alignment with the summer solstice, is an opportunity to further celebrate the invaluable contributions, diverse cultures, and rich heritage of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Please join us in learning and reflecting upon the history, role models, leaders, accomplishments, and culture of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.
We acknowledge that the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board’s schools and sites are on unceded and unsurrendered Algonquin Territory. We appreciate and give thanks to the Algonquin Nation, and recognize their enduring presence on this land.
At the OCDSB, we have a year-round responsibility to embed and celebrate the richness and diversity of Indigenous people, traditions, culture (historical and contemporary), and ways of knowing into the everyday lives and learning of students. It is also our responsibility as a District to remain committed to the Calls to Action recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and to teach all students, staff, and educators the truth about the ongoing legacy and significant impacts of colonialism, and, in particular, residential schools, including the loss of Indigenous life, language and culture. Alongside the Indigenous Education Team, the District works with Indigenous students, parents and partners to implement and monitor the delivery of Indigenous education in an inclusive and equitable manner that builds our Culture of Caring.
Below, we have shared information and resources to help students, staff, and families celebrate National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day. All are also welcome to reach out to the Indigenous Education Team for additional resources and information.
Film and Media
- Explore Indigenous Cinema from the National Film Board.
- Watch Raven’s Quest to learn from Indigenous youth across the country.
- Explore Unreserved: Host Rosanna Deerchild speaks with storytellers, culture makers and community shakers from across the country. 5 rising musicians share their songs and success, Blazing a trail on the catwalk and beyond, Using music to tell Indigenous stories.
- Hold Space: Kyana Kingbird On Dance, Culture & Indigenous Representation
- Evan’s Drum (NFB Indigenous) is a joyful visit to a family’s loving home, and an uplifting story of cultural pride. After generations of silence, the rhythm of the traditional Inuit drum has returned to Labrador, and seven-year-old Evan is part of the new generation that will keep its heartbeat strong.
- Listen to This Place, a podcast based on the acclaimed graphic novel anthology of the same name.
- Learn a few Anishinàbemowin words and phrases.
- Check out Warrior Kids Podcast and Warrior Life Podcast.
Music, Dance and Art
- A Gallery of Noteworthy Indigenous Women by the Native Women’s’ Association of Canada
- Explore the music of Indigenous musicians like Jeremy Dutcher, Aysanabee, Elisapie, Tanya Tagaq, and more!
- Theland Kicknosway Hoop Dance: Healing through Indigenous Dancing, CBC Arts
- The Art of Sovereignty, a podcast where hosts Chris Beaver and Shelby Lisk explore the lives of eight First Nations artists whose art reclaims Indigenous voices and identities in a country that tried to silence them.
Books and Reading
Consult the Storykeepers podcast to learn more about the books below. Your child will be able to ask about many of these books at their school library.
- Walking Together by Elder Dr. Albert D. Marshall & Louise Zimanyi, illustrated by Emily Kewageshig. This picture book introduces readers to the concept of Etuaptmumk—Two-Eyed Seeing, the gift of multiple perspectives in the Mi’kmaw language—as we follow a group of young children connecting to nature as their teacher.
- Treaty Words for as Long as the River Flows, by Aimée Craft and Luke Swinson: A story about Treaties, the lasting bonds of reciprocity and renewal.
- Un si beau sourire/A Smile So Big! By Sunshine Quen Tenasco, Illustrated by Chief Lady Bird. A story about a young girl learning to understand her true beauty.
- Go Show the World, A Celebration of Indigenous Heroes by Wab Kinew: A picture book that celebrates fourteen historical and contemporary Indigenous heroes who have made outstanding contributions to their communities and respective Nations.
- Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids by Cynthia Leitich Smith. A collection of intersecting stories by both new and veteran writers.
- The Theory of Crows: by David A. Robertson. A poignant novel about the bonds of family and the gifts offered by the land.
- Moon of the Turning Leaves by Waubgeshig Rice: A post-apocalyptic story about a small northern Anishinaabe community.