The Minister of Indigenous Relations Rajan Sawhney issued the following statement on National Indigenous History Month:
“June is National Indigenous History Month – a time to celebrate the knowledge, histories and contributions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit who have called these lands home for generations."
“It is an important time to reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation – an active and ongoing journey that requires collective action."
"I encourage everyone to participate in local events, foster connections with Indigenous communities and broaden their understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, perspectives and protocols."
“Alberta’s government remains steadfast in its commitment to reconciliation, taking concrete steps to ensure Indigenous Peoples are included at every level of the economy – as owners, workers and partners."
“The Kihciy Maskikiy/Aakaakmotaani reconciliation garden, on the southeast lawn of the Alberta legislature grounds, is home to a towering stone monument that recognizes and honours the victims and survivors of residential schools."
"If you are in Edmonton, I encourage you to visit the reconciliation garden as it blooms once again – a meaningful space for reflection and healing."
The garden is centred around a linden tree that was planted as a sapling in 2021.
This tree’s growth over time represents continuity, renewal and the long journey toward reconciliation.
The garden features a medicine wheel, a sacred symbol of the 4 directions and the interconnectedness of all things.
The 4 quadrants of the wheel contain sweetgrass, sage, tobacco and cedar.
“Big or small, every effort to deepen our understanding of Indigenous Peoples presents an opportunity to support reconciliation.” concludes Sawhney.
The House of Commons designated June as National Aboriginal History Month in 2009.
The name was changed to National Indigenous History Month in 2017.
To learn more and find resources visit the Alberta Government website.
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