June 21 – National Aboriginal Day

Every year June 21 marks the Summer Solstice as well as National Aboriginal Day. Though we recognize one day is not sufficient to celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding achievements of Aboriginal peoples, it is an important moment for all First Nation, Métis and Inuit members. 

The CUPW Human Rights Committee Aboriginal working group chose the eagle to adorn this year’s poster. 

“The eagle is one of the universally revered animals in indigenous societies around the world.  The general belief is that the eagle is the bird that flies closest to the creator and thus is responsible for bringing our prayers to the creator on its wings.  It is said that if an eagle is seen flying overhead during a ceremony or during prayers that the creator is listening. As it flies the highest it has the best point of view of the world around it, its vision is unparalleled in the animal kingdom.  The eagle is able to spot its prey from far above and dive with great accuracy in order to catch what it needs to survive and ensure the survival of its nest.”

Celebrate National Aboriginal Day

CUPW National office has mailed the posters to locals for display. National Aboriginal Day is an opportunity to reflect on important developments that affect First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities.

National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women

The current government has promised to launch a National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. While this is a significant advancement, it will be important to hold them to their commitment to pursue the Inquiry and to ensure that there is follow through to end racist, colonial and sexist violence.

Truth and Reconciliation

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission has closed its offices and transferred its activities to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. The Centre is the steward of all documents and materials gathered from the TRC to ensure public access, education and that the history and legacy of the Residential School System are never forgotten.

To find out more: http://nctr.ca/about.php

Idle No More

Idle No More (INM) is a grassroots movement with groups spread across Canada and linked in solidarity around the globe. The movement has been a powerful force of Indigenous sovereignty aiming to protect the land and water.

The next INM gathering will take place on unceded and unsurrendered Algonquin territory, at Ojibway Park, Garden River, Ontario on July 14^th at 9:00 a.m.

More information on the Idle No More movement can be found at http://idlenomore.ca/.

Thank you for doing whatever you can to support Idle No More and celebrate all First Nations, Métis and Inuit brothers and sisters.

In solidarity,