Commentary, Opinion

My Sister’s Place encourages residents to celebrate Indigenous History, Pride Month

June 24, 2026   ·   0 Comments

At My Sister’s Place, we acknowledge the diversity of humanity and are welcoming of all women regardless of age, race, ethnicity, national origin, range of abilities, financial means, education or political perspectives.  To celebrate and honour some of this diversity, June is a busy month in Canada! It’s a time when we recognize National Indigenous History Month, and National Indigenous Peoples Day was celebrated on June 21. June is also when we celebrate Pride Month.

National Indigenous History Month is an opportunity to learn about the cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples, and to recognize the rich history, heritage, resilience and diversity of Indigenous peoples across Canada.  

It’s a time to recognize the impacts of colonialization, residential schools and systematic discrimination and reflect on how we can contribute to reconciliation.  We can celebrate Indigenous month by celebrating Indigenous achievements, traditions, and contemporary contributions. By focusing on education about Indigenous cultures and histories, by direct support and community participation to honour Indigenous traditions and culture.

Canadians are encouraged to learn more about First Nations, Inuit and Metis People and our collective past.

• Some ideas of how you can get involved and show support include:
• Read books by indigenous authors or attend a Storytelling or workshop led by Indigenous artists and Elders.
• Attend community events and gatherings such as Powwows, drumming, and traditional dances to celebrate Indigenous culture.
• Watch films or performances, listen to Indigenous podcasts.
• Listen to music by indigenous artists.
• Follow First Nations, Inuit and Metis creators on social media.
• Support Indigenous artists, businesses and creators.
• Visit Destination Ontario to learn about events and celebrations honouring Indigenous Month

Join the conversation on social media by using the hashtags #NIHM2026 for National Indigenous History Month.

On National Indigenous Day, June 21, Canadians were encouraged to wear Orange or Red. These colours are symbols of truth, reconciliation and solidarity with the First Nations, Inuit and Metis communities:

• Orange to honour survivors of residential schools and support the “Every child matters” movement.
• Red to raise awareness for missing and murdered Indigenous Women and Girls

Pride Month is a global observance dedicated to celebrating 2SLGBTQI+ cultural history and community.  It honours the ongoing fight for equal rights.

People gather globally in June to celebrate love and diversity and to advocate for equal rights. The first demonstrations were held in Ottawa and Vancouver in 1971. By 1973, Pride events were added in Montreal, Saskatoon, Toronto and Winnipeg.

Many communities recognize Pride month by raising the Pride flag. 

Locally, the Krasman Centre, 17 Paris Street, Alliston, hosted its 3rd annual Pride Celebration on June 20. This inclusive and family-friendly gathering provided entertainment, food and activities to those in attendance. 

Pride Toronto Festival will run from June 25 to June 28, and this year’s theme is “We Won’t Stop.”  The Festival Schedule includes: Dyke March on June 27; Pride Parade on June 28; Street Fair from June 26 to 28; and Closing Night Performances on June 28.

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