This message is being shared on behalf of the First Peoples Indigenous Centre. Please direct any questions to Jocelyne Pelletier, Indigenous coach.

In honour of the 13th National Indigenous History Month, Durham College (DC) will reinforce its commitment to reconciliation and strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities, as identified in the Indigenization Statement, by permanently raising the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nations flag on Wednesday, June 1.

In 2009, the House of Commons unanimously passed a motion to declare the month of June National Indigenous History Month, a month dedicated to celebrating the rich history, vibrant culture, resilience, and diversity of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. The month of June allows all Canadians to reflect on the sacrifices, contributions and strengths of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples and reflect on our shared history.

The First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC) invites the DC campus community to join us in our celebration of National Indigenous History Month by participating in the following upcoming events:

Teaching with Elder Dorothy Taylor
Join Elder Dorothy Taylor from Curve Lake First Nations for her monthly traditional Anishinaabe teaching. Previous teachings have included topics such as the Anishinaabe Creation Story and water teachings.

Dates:

• Wednesday, June 8 from 11 a.m. to noon. Register online.
• Thursday, June 23 from 1 to 2 p.m. Register online.

Indigenous Heritage Celebration
Join us in the Naanaagide’endamowin Courtyard for a celebration of Indigenous heritage! This event will feature a ceremony to honour the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nations flag as a permanent fixture at DC, as well as a demonstration of Big Drum and an interactive demonstration of Indigenous powwow dancing styles.

Date: Friday, June 10 from 1 to 3 p.m. Register online.

Teaching with Elder Dr. Shirley Williams
FPIC welcomes Elder Dr. Shirley Williams from Wikwemikong First Nations as she shares her traditional knowledge of Indigenous Clan Systems and the Indigenous Medicine Wheel teachings.

Dates:

• Monday, June 20 from 1 to 2 p.m. Register online.
• Wednesday, June 29 from 11 a.m. to noon. Register online.

Traditional Medicines in the Modern World: Mental Health
FPIC welcomes Traditional Medicine Keeper Joseph Pitawanakwat as he shares his knowledge of Indigenous plant medicines and their role in helping us maintain a healthy mind, body and spirit.

Date: Wednesday, June 22 from 2 to 4 p.m. Register online.

Bannock + Books: 21 Things You Might Not Know About the Indian Act
Expand your knowledge of the Indian Act by joining us for a learning circle as we explore 21 Things You Might Not Know About the Indian Act. A limited number of books are available for loan with registration.

Date: Monday, June 27 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Register online.

Land Acknowledgement Workshop
Join First Peoples Indigenous Center as we guide you through this interactive session designed to help you understand your connection to land acknowledgements and why they are imperative to meaningful reconciliation.

Date: Tuesday, June 28 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Register online.