June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, a time to recognize the rich history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis.
Each year, we honour National Indigenous History Month and Indigenous Peoples Day. June is an essential time of reflection for those living and working on the Indigenous lands now known as Canada and locally, the First Nations unceded territories now collectively known as British Columbia.
The creative sector gratefully acknowledges the 200,000 Indigenous people living in B.C., including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. The sector operates across the unceded homelands of 34 First Nations language and cultural groups, encompassing nearly 60 dialects and representing over 200 distinct First Nations in B.C.
The creative industries are crucial in prioritizing, empowering, and celebrating original Indigenous stories and those who have the right to tell them. These stories are a cornerstone of our collective cultural heritage, and must be celebrated. They offer wisdom and truth, reflecting the unique viewpoints, histories, sacrifices, cultures, contributions, and strengths of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.
National Indigenous History Month encourages Indigenous Peoples to celebrate their history with pride and a spirit of preservation. For non-Indigenous people, it is an opportunity to learn about and recognize the significant role Indigenous Peoples have played and continue to play in shaping every facet of our creative sector’s cultural fabric.
Here are some ways the creative industries in B.C. are foregrounding Indigenous stories, taking action, and providing resources to champion a safe and equitable future for their creators and everyone in these industries.
Celebrating Recent Successes
Resources and Events
Book + Magazine Publishing
Interactive + Digital Media
Motion Picture
Music + Sound Recording
Resources, Tools, Actions, and Learning for Non-Indigenous People
Make a donation to support Indian Residential School Survivors
Learn whose land you are on with the First Peoples Map of B.C.
Find listings for events happening throughout the month, and creative sector resources from BC Creates.