Every June, Canada celebrates National Indigenous History Month. While this is an opportunity to honour the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people, it is important to recognize how far Canada still has to go in repairing relationships with Indigenous nations.
This June, we encourage Canadians to take part in learning and educating themselves on the strength, contributions, and sacrifices of Indigenous Peoples.
Learn more about the Barrie Public Library’s celebration of National Indigenous History month through a variety of programming and book lists below. It is essential to become educated on missing and murdered Indigenous peoples and the traumas these communities continue to face as a result. We have put together resources to teach you about the residential school system, including book lists and mental health and wellness resources.
Read
We invite you to learn more by checking out these reading lists featuring content by and about Indigenous authors and illustrators for adults, teens, and children.
BPL Programs
Every Saturday, BPL staff share their selections featuring stories by and about Indigenous authors and illustrators.
Learn how the bee got their stinger and join us online for songs, rhymes, activities, and early literacy fun!
Join Anabel for an exciting dual language storytime and learn some Ojibwe words.
Join us every Monday in June for special selections from the National Film Board of Canada, and learn more from Indigenous creators.
June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. Watch this panel discussion with Knowledge Keepers, and learn more about the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples
Join us for some traditional stories with Early ON Indigenous Coordinator Angelia Brooks.
Local Indigenous Service Providers
The vision of the Barrie Native Friendship Centre is to improve the quality of life for all Indigenous / Métis people in the area, regardless of legal definition by providing a gathering place that promotes unity and wholistic healing within the community at large. This is accomplished through a network of culturally based programs, services and teachings.
Since its inception in 1989 The Barrie Area Native Advisory Circle has functioned as a regional social planning and development organization. BANAC region now covers Simcoe County, Muskoka, and the northern York Region
These programs include a blend of contemporary and traditional teaching methods, with Indigenous cultural values and perspectives embedded in the curriculum.
Mental Health & Wellness Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, please head to any of the below resources for support.
- Barrie Area Native Advisory Circle
- Aboriginal Healing and Wellness – Barrie Native Friendship Centre
- Information Barrie: Services for Indigenous Peoples
- Aboriginal Mental Health and Wellness - CAMH
Resources
The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization representing First Nation citizens in Canada, which includes more than 900,000 people living in 634 First Nation communities and in cities and towns across the country.
A unique online and interactive tool to help educators teach the culture and perspectives of Indigenous peoples in Canada through the voice of Indigenous Youth.
The history of Indigenous peoples in Canada, reconciliation and more.
The National Voice Of Canada’s 65,000 Inuit.
Since 1983, the MNC has served as the national and international representative of the Métis Nation.
Learn how the Government of Canada is working to advance reconciliation and renew the relationship with Indigenous peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership.