National Indigenous People's Day on June 21st

Dear students and colleagues,

The EDI Committee recognizes and celebrates National Indigenous People's Day on June 21st . In 1996, the Canadian government officially declared June 21st as National Aboriginal Day, in response to the calls for recognition and unity from Indigenous communities and recommendations from the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples. This day honors the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada.

National Indigenous People's Day serves as a powerful reminder of the historical and ongoing resilience, wisdom, and strength of Indigenous peoples. Their vibrant cultures have vitalized this land for generations. This is a time to celebrate the countless past and present contributions of Indigenous peoples, shaping our world across policy, science, culture, and countless other domains. The Psychology Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee members encourage our Psychology community to use this day to celebrate, reflect, and learn.

Celebrate: There are various events taking place in Edmonton from June 18th-24th to celebrate National Indigenous People’s Day. See further details through the links below:

• The Edmonton Public Library is hosting several events throughout June to celebrate National Indigenous History Month, including The Making of the Drum with Elder Terry (Coyote) Aleck and Christine Turenne (White Wolf Woman) on June 21st.
• The Faculty of Native Studies is hosting an Indigenous People’s and Pride event June 18th from 11:30am to 1:30pm in the University Commons Atrium.
• The Telus World of Science has various events planned to celebrate on June 21st.
• In honour of National Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the Center for Teaching and Learning invites everyone to join a day of connection and land-based learning on Wednesday June 24th.
  • Bannock & Tea with Elder Evelyn Day from 10:00am-12:00pm, and
  • Walking land-based experience from 1:30pm-3:00pm.

Reflect and Learn: This summer, the Faculty of Native Studies is offering online micro-courses (asynchronous and self-directed):

• Indigenous Peoples and Canada. This course provides learners with “an overview of Indigenous historical and contemporary experiences in Canada”. The next offering is July 6 - August 29.
• Indigenous Peoples as Subjects/Objects. This course provides “foundational lessons about historical scientific relationships between Indigenous communities and colonial science fields in North America”. The next offering is July 7 – August 25.
• See Dr. Florence Glanfield’s article on Understanding the concept of Treaty.

See this link to learn about various Indigenous Initiatives and events at the University of Alberta

As members of the Psychology EDI Committee, we are dedicated to ongoing education, learning, and action. Our aim is to create accessible, inclusive, equitable, and anti-racist classrooms and work environments. We are here to support you and welcome any suggestions or concerns you may have.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Passey (Chair of the Psychology EDI Committee)