táwáw to the first month of summer edition of tânte ohcî kîyâ, June known as pâskâwihowi pîsim Egg-Hatching Moon in Cree.
This month is extremely important for acknowledging and honouring our Indigenous families throughout North America.
I love that we have this day of June 21st to acknowledge and celebrate our identity! Bringing alive our traditional culture through drums, song and dance. Reflecting the beauty of our traditional regalia in dance with the sound of chimes of the jingle dress and unique regalia as the ancestors shine their approval through the brightness of the sun
Summer also being a season for ceremonial dances, and pow wows across the Nations. Vacations, travel and relaxation! It’s a way of how everyone celebrates after a hard working year in school or working. Time to prepare for new beginning coming in the Autumn season.
This year included elections for some Indigenous communities with great anticipation to continue to move forward to hearing the peoples’ voices for the betterment of the community. Taking care of our families.
Seasons bring change as we move forward of another year of birthday celebrations let’s remember to embrace with gratitude and remain humble. As we are all spirits in human form to learn to walk with Creator and trust that we are on the right path of fulfilling our purpose to love and be loved. Because one day each of us will go home to the spirit world, as we entered this world with nothing we will leave this world with nothing but our legacy. How do you want to be remembered?
I am grateful for you as a reader of tânté ohcî kîya and hope that you find this resourceful in information of upcoming events and information.
ay ay,
sîsîqwaniskwew
pâskâwihowi pîsim
Egg-Hatching Moon
June
Summer Time
June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. It's a time to honour the stories, achievements and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues to impact the evolving Canada.
Background
In 1996, Governor General Roméo LeBlanc declared June 21 of each year as "National Aboriginal Day." This was the result of consultations and statements of support for such a day made by various Indigenous groups:
-in 1982, the National Indian Brotherhood, now the Assembly of First Nations, called for the creation of National Aboriginal Solidarity Day
-in 1995, the Sacred Assembly, a national conference of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people chaired by Elijah Harper, called for a national holiday to celebrate the contributions of Indigenous Peoples
-in 1995, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples recommended the designation of a National First Peoples Day
On June 21, 2017, the Prime Minister issued a statement announcing the intention to rename this day "National Indigenous Peoples Day."
Today, National Indigenous Peoples Day is part of the Celebrate Canada program, which includes other cultural summer celebrations taking place across the country.
The House of Commons designated June as National Aboriginal History Month in 2009. The name was changed to National Indigenous History Month in 2017.
National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year.
For generations, many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities have celebrated their cultures, languages, and traditions at this time of year.
The summer solstice holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous Peoples, marking a time of renewal, connection, and celebration.
Many events start on this day, every 3 or 4 years is a new election for some Indigenous communities.
Entering this month with graduations, and retirement, engagements and wedding celebrations happen during this month of June.
Pow wows, indian relays and night markets, music festivals happening.
Summer might be a short season but it’s build with great anticipation of new beginnings for some and a time to celebrate for all.
“Indigenous Peoples have been stewards of Canada’s lands and waters for time immemorial.
National Indigenous History Month is a time to celebrate the histories, cultures, languages, knowledge, and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.
“Indigenous leadership and perspectives will be foundational to how this government delivers its mandate. We will address past harms, take a distinctions-based approach, and advance self-determination, while upholding Modern
Treaties and selfgovernment agreements.
“Central to this commitment is the long-term wealth and prosperity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. To that end, we have doubled the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program from $5 billion to $10 billion –and opened it to sectors outside of energy and natural resources to catalyze more Indigenous-led infrastructure, transportation, and trade projects across the country.
“As Canada moves forward with
nation-building projects, the government will be firmly guided by the principle of free, prior, and informed consent.
“We will work in full partnership with Indigenous Peoples –advancing shared priorities from health care, food security, housing, and education to conservation, climate action, and emergency management.
We move forward on the important work of the calls to action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Final Report, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous
Women and Girls’ Calls for Justice, and the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.”
On National Indigenous Peoples Day, National Chief Calls for Accelerated Action on UNDA Implementation
(June 21, 2025 –Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) – On National Indigenous Peoples Day and the fourth anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDA) becoming law, National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak and the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) released its Summary Report from the National Forum on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.
“This is a meaningful day to release this summary report, as we reflect on this fourth anniversary how much work remains to be done on the implementation of UNDA,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “When we gathered for this Forum in February, we heard clearly from delegates and presenters that enhanced participation for First Nations is key to
moving forward. We have seen just in these last few weeks with Bill C-5 how First Nations participation continues to be undermined within Canada. We must be full and meaningful participants at every level of decision making that affects our lands and territories. We also need a greater First Nations presence on the global stage, especially as the critical minerals and resources on First Nations territories are poised to fulfill a global need.”
“We also heard clearly from Forum participants the importance of economic reconciliation,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak.
“We know that full implementation of the UNDA would create conditions for strong, self-determining First Nations economies. First Nations continue to face barriers to access capital and build capacity for economic opportunities. Supporting First Nations-led businesses
must be part of Canada’s plan for sustainable growth. We call on the federal government to reaffirm its commitment to fully implement UNDA and support economic reconciliation through measurable outcomes.”
“In honour of the UNDA anniversary and National Indigenous Peoples Day, we encourage Canadians to learn more about First Nations economic initiatives and urge governments to meet their obligations under the UN Declaration,” concluded National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak.
“We will continue to press for clear timelines, independent oversight, and full alignment with the UN Declaration developed in partnership with First Nations. We are at a pivotal moment, economically and politically, and it is critical that Canada’s future be one of reaffirming and advancing First Nations rights.”
The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national political and advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
Follow AFN on X at @AFN_Updates.
For more information, please contact: Kelly Reid Senior Communications Officer Assembly of First Nations (613) 292-0857 (mobile) kreid@afn.ca
To view the Forum Summary Report: https://afn.bynder.com/ m/54165f0194d26fe5/ original/2025-UNDAForum-SummaryReport.pdf
Make Your Voice Heard on Bill C-5, An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act
Make Your Voice Heard on Bill C-5, An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act
Bill C-5, An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act (One Canadian Economy Act), proposes to fast-track federal approvals for major infrastructure projects using a “national interest” designation, diminishing the capacity for proper consultation with First Nations.
Once designated, projects would proceed with limited debate, reduced oversight, and minimal opportunity for First Nations to influence decisions that directly affect our lands, rights, and future generations. Bill C-5, An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act, is currently
before the House of Commons. The Senate of Canada is commencing a “pre-study” of Bill C-5. While the Government of Canada has chosen to advance a legislative process that limits opportunities to influence Bill C-5, you can still contact Members of Parliament, Senators, and members of the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure, and Communities, who are reviewing Bill C-5, to share your views before the Bill moves forward. We urge all First Nations to share their views with Members of Parliament and Senators before Bill C -5 moves forward.
You can:
Contact Your Member of Parliament
Reach out to your local Member of Parliament to share your views on Bill C -5 and the proposed Building
Canada Act. Clearly explain your position and recommendations in your letter or email.
To find your Member of Parliament and their contact information, visit: https:// www.ourcommons.ca/ Members/en.
For information on Bill C5, visit: https:// www.parl.ca/ documentviewer/en/45-1/ bill/C-5/first-reading.
Please see next page for sample of letter to address your voice on the Bill C-5
Contact Senators
You can also write to some or all Senators, especially those from your province or territory, to share your position and recommendations about Bill C-5.
For a list of Senators and how to contact them, visit: https:// sencanada.ca/en/ senators/.
Submit a Written Brief to the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure, and Communities (TRAN) First Nations, organizations, and individuals can submit written briefs directly to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure, and Communities (TRAN) regarding Bill C-5.
Submit your brief here: https:// www.ourcommons.ca/ committees/en/TRAN/ StudyActivity? studyActivityId=13099091.
The Right Honourable Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada Office of the Prime Minister
80 Wellington Street Ottawa, ON K1A 0A2
[Member of Parliament] House of Commons Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6
[Senator] Senate of Canada Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0A4
Dear [Name],
I am writing to express my position regarding the federal government’s introduction of Bill C-5, An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act (One Canadian Economy Act). The Building Canada Act would fast-track certain infrastructure projects designated as being of "national interest."
The proposed Building Canada Act raises significant concerns for First Nations. Specifically, it risks: undermining constitutional and Treaty rights, weakening the Crown’s duty to consult and accommodate, and disregarding the principle of free, prior, and informed consent, as affirmed in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.
The decision to introduce the Building Canada Act as part of an omnibus bill, combining rights-impacting legislation with broader fiscal and economic measures, significantly limits opportunities for First Nations to participate fully in decisions that directly affect their rights and interests. This approach is inconsistent with the federal government’s commitments to a true nation-to-nation relationship, reconciliation, and its obligations under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.
As [insert title or role ], we are seeking your political support to ensure the Building Canada Act does not proceed until full, meaningful consultation has taken place directly with First Nations rights-holders. Legislation that affects First Nations’ rights cannot move forward without these obligations being fully met. This is fundamental to the Crown’s constitutional, Treaty, and international obligations and is essential to advancing reconciliation in a manner that is both respectful and lawful.
Sincerely,
[Full Name]
[Email]
[Location]
( – June 12, 2025)
The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) has unanimously passed a resolution opposing the recently introduced federal fasttracking ‘One Canadian Economy’ Bill C-5 which would fast-track large-scale infrastructure and resource projects by allowing federal ministers to bypass environmental reviews, provincial collaboration, and the obligation to obtain First Nations' free, prior, and informed consent.
UBCIC Resolution 2025-24 “Opposition to Bill C-5, An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act, and Call for Coordinated First Nations Response” was passed unanimously at the UBCIC Chiefs Council meeting on June 11, 2025, and warns that the proposed legislation is in complete opposition to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UN Declaration) and Canada’s own United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDA). Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, UBCIC President, stated “The federal government cannot cloak violations of our rights
News Release - June 12, 2025
UBCIC Chiefs Council Unanimously Passes Resolution Opposing Federal Fast-Track Legislation xʷməθkwey̓em (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and selilweta4 (Tsleil Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C.
under the guise of national interest.
This legislation, as currently written, would be a complete betrayal of Canada’s commitments under the UN Declaration and the hard-fought recognition of our inherent and constitutionally protected title and rights. It will not stand unopposed.
Previous major projects rammed through in the so-called national interest have typically faced major cost overruns that were borne by the taxpayer, such as the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion, which was originally estimated at $5.4 billion and came in with a final price tag of a whopping $34 billion. We need projects that are properly considered and that uphold our title and rights – Bill C-5 doesn’t lead to this.”
The proposed legislation seeks to enable ministers to deem projects “in the national interest,” granting near-automatic approval and overriding vital regulatory and consultative processes. UBCIC argues that this legislative maneuver undermines environmental protections, First Nations basic human rights and sovereignty, and the principles of justice
and equity affirmed in international and Canadian law.
“Bill C-5 is a dangerous step backwards in democracy,” stated Chief Don Tom, UBCIC Vice-President. “The Bill was introduced without any meaningful consultation and cooperation with title and rights holders- Canada provided a letter and background document to the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations a week prior to introduction, and we are not aware that this went to all First Nations.
UBCIC did not receive a copy from Canada. The federal government is attempting to push through projects without our consent, without our participation, and without regard for our laws or the lands we are stewards of. We reject this outright and will work in unity with other First Nations and organizations to ensure our rights are upheld.”
Chief Marilyn Slett, UBCIC Secretary-Treasurer, concluded “It is clear to us that provincial and federal politicians are advancing a coordinated agenda designed to sidestep and undermine the basic human rights of First Nations. The government
of BC’s Infrastructure Projects Act and Renewable Energy Projects (Streamlined Permitting) Act, the government of Ontario’s Bill 5, Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, and now the federal government’s Bill C -5. We will not allow Crown governments to sidestep their legal obligations or erase decades of progress through legislative shortcuts. We stand with all First Nations, including those in Ontario, who oppose this regressive legislation. Our resistance will be strategic and united.”
UBCIC is calling for the immediate withdrawal of Bill C-5 and demands any future legislation impacting First Nations title and rights be developed in full consultation and cooperation with First Nations as required by UNDA, with adequate federal resources for true First Nations-led engagement.
Always remain a part of our Indigenous History and still remains present today: In Canada, Indigenous people, a protected group were systematically murdered, harmed, assimilated, sterilized, and stolen with the intent to destroy the group. So not only did Canada’s actions against Indigenous people have all three elements required by the definition, but it also committed all five prohibited act.
“Take the Indian Out of the child” - Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada’s first Prime Minister
“ I want to get rid of the indian problem… our objective is to continue until there is not an indian that has not been absorbed into the body politic, and there is no indian question, and no indian department.” -
Duncan Campbell Scott, Oversaw the operation of Residential Schools.
Residential Schools (1880 1996)
150,000 children forcibly removed from their parents and their home
Beaten, tortured, starved, raped
Prohibition to speak their language
Thousands of deaths unaccounted for.
While there are many examples of the genocidal
acts Canada committed, the one that’s been in the news most recently is the practice of taking children forcibly from their families to attend Residential schools and Day Schools. Also children sold to non-Indigenous families, sixties scoop. We now have evidence of what Indigenous people have always known, thousands of children died at these schools from disease, abuse, neglect and starvation.
But all that is in the past right?
The legacy of past genocidal acts still exists today through intergenerational trauma and the numerous policies that have devastating effects on Indigenous communities.
The following are just a few:
The Indian Act was created to control and assimilate Indigenous people and their communities and is still in effect today.
Indigenous women in Canada are over-represented in the prison system, accounting for 42 percent of all federally sentenced women in Canada, and 50 percent of maximumsecurity placements for women.
In 1951, revisions to the Indian Act granted provincial child welfare
agencies authority on reserves, which led to Indigenous children being taking away from their families at a staggering rate. Despite recent apologies from the government, these actions have resulted in more Indigenous children in the child welfare system today than during the peak of the residential school system.
Indigenous women, girls transgender, gender-diverse and two-spirit people continue to go missing and are murdered at an alarming and disproportionate rate.
What’s Worse? The Genocide isn’t over…
It may be difficult to accept that genocide is occurring in Canada…
The Best County in the world….
In 2019, the result of the government’s National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls was released with the conclusion that the thousands of victims were a part of a Canadian genocide.
How do we stop genocide?
IMPLEMENT:
-the 231 calls for justice of the National Inquiry on MMIWGs
-the 94 calls for action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission
-Spirit Bear Plan
-UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
-Joyce’s Principle
-and more.,..
How can you help?
Acknowledge and spread the true history of Canada. Only through admitting past wrongs can we have reconciliation.
This National Indigenous History Month, we’re asking governments to commit to adding this history to high school curriculums. If you’d like to participate, please see the sample of the letter on the next page and send the letter to federal and provincial politicians to let them know you think the true history of Canada should be taught in school.
Dear Decision Maker,
At Canada’s inception, Sir John A. Macdonald admitted to wanting to remove Indigenous people. Twenty-three Prime Ministers later, there is still an ongoing genocide against Indigenous people in Canada.
This National Indigenous History Month, we’re asking you to commit to adding the true history of Canada to high school curriculums. Reconciliation is based on acknowledging the truth and repairing past wrongs. Canadians need to learn about the genocide against Indigenous people, its legacy, and the legal obligation to end it.
The National Inquiry’s Calls for Justice 1.8, 1.9, and 11.1 require the government to educate the public on violence and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls crisis, yet little progress has been made in this area. You can and must do better.
Visit teachthegenocide.ca to stay informed. I await your action.
Sincerely,
Indian Act Second-Generation Cut-Off
Welcome to the joint initiative of the B.C. Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) and the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, raising awareness and inspiring action to end the longstanding injustices caused by discriminatory provisions in Canada’s Indian Act.
For decades, First Nations families – particularly women and their descendants - have faced systemic discrimination under the Indian Act, leading to the loss of Indian status, band membership, and access to critical rights and entitlements. These colonial laws and policies, designed to assimilate Indigenous peoples, have created intergenerational harm and fractured families and communities.
The federal government continues to take a piece meal approach to
changing discriminatory provisions within the Indian Act, without fully addressing systemic inequities and delaying the implementation of several pieces of legislation, resulting in ongoing discrimination that is a threat to the cohesion of our families and the population of our Nations.
Why This Matters
Restoring justice and equality for First Nations women and families is critical to advancing reconciliation and honoring the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples. Historical and ongoing discrimination in the Indian Act disproportionately affects First Nations women and their descendants, stripping them of their rights and erasing their voices from governance and community life.
These injustices have led to:
Loss of identity and cultural connection for individuals and families. Divisions within communities, where some members are granted status and others are excluded. Reduced political representation and diminished roles for women and marginalized groups in decision-making processes.
Implications for the First Nations population, including a gradual erosion of recognized status holders.
Recent projections indicate that 27% of B.C. First Nations peoples are registered as 6(2) in the Indian Registry. Unless they parent with another status person, their future descendants will no longer be entitled to registration under
the Indian Act, and they will no longer have access to the rights and entitlements that the government provides those individuals. Within one generation 1 in every 4 children born on reserve is expected to lack registration entitlement and eligibility.
This is a result of the second-generation cut-off.
Why Act Now
The upcoming Federal Consultation Collaborative Process presents a critical opportunity to address ongoing discrimination in the Indian Act.
By participating and advocating for substantive change, we can ensure that the voices of First Nations women, descendants, and communities are heard, and that the federal government takes definitive action.
We wish to reiterate that this is an issue of deep, deep importance that, if not remedied fully, will contribute to mathematical genocide.
As a First Nation citizen, your voice matters. Together, we can hold the Canadian government accountable and ensure that these inequities are eliminated once and for all.
Here’s how you can help: Learn and explore the history and ongoing impacts of discriminatory policies under the Indian Act.
Indian Act
Second-Generation
Cut-Off and Section 10 Voting Thresholds'. First Nations Perspectives and Positions
Read & Watch List -Key sources of information on sex, race, and familybased discrimination in the Indian Act.
Honouring Timeline -This timeline highlights the extraordinary efforts of some of the many First Nations women and men who have challenged and changed discriminatory provisions in the Indian Act.
Timeline of Legislation, Recommendations, and
Reports -A timeline building on the federal government timeline and includes additional relevant findings, comments and recommendations
Share & Advocate by spreading the word within your community about these critical issues.
Contact your elected leaders to demand the repeal of discriminatory provisions, such as Section 6(2) and enfranchisement rules during their participation in the federal consultation collaborative process.
Engage by participating in consultations and discussions about the future of Indian status, band membership, and First Nations citizenship.
Learn more about the federal consultation process.
Link to federal site Chiefs & Communities can send a letter supporting the UBCIC BCAFN Calls to Action to demand systemic reforms. Using this template letter to Canada.
Reference::UnionofBCIndians.
The Honourable Patty Hajdu, MP
Minister of Indigenous Services
10 Wellington, Gatineau, QC K1A 0H4
Dear Minister Hajdu,
Subject: Urgent Action Required to Address Discrimination in the Indian Act and Ensure First Nations’ Survival
We write to express our grave concerns about the continued impact of discriminatory provisions within the Indian Act, specifically the second-generation cut-off rule under Section 6(2). This policy undermines our right to self-determination, our integrity and dignity as a People, and threatens our very existence. Over 43,000 B.C. First Nations individuals, representing 27% of the registered population, are impacted by Section 6(2). This rule will lead to declining registered populations unless legislative changes are made.
We support the calls to action of other B.C. First Nations, as described in the joint UBCIC BCAFN position paper on the Second Generation Cut Off:
Aligning with UN Declaration
The Government of Canada must urgently remove all discriminatory barriers to First Nations citizenship/membership and align its policies with the UN Declaration.
Provide funding and resources to enable First Nations to define and manage their own citizenship processes under their Indigenous laws.
Addressing Sex-Based Discrimination
Eliminate sections 6(1)(f) and 6(2) of the Indian Act and adopt a one-parent rule for registration, ensuring consistency with Canadian citizenship standards.
Restore status to descendants and women who lost rights due to discriminatory legislation dating back to 1869.
Pair legislative changes with increased funding for programs, services, infrastructure, and housing to support newly eligible members.
Funding for First Nations Governments
Ensure adequate funding for capacity building, enhanced infrastructure, and land transfers to accommodate newly registered individuals.
Rectify historic underfunding of governance, programs, and services to allow Nations to thrive as sustainable entities.
Compensating & Redressing
Repeal non-liability clauses and provide compensation for individuals and communities affected by discriminatory provisions of the Indian Act.
Include measures such as public apologies, funding for commemoration and ceremonies, and streamlined processes for redress.
Improving the Registration Process
Streamline the registration process with clear service standards to ensure timely access to rights and benefits under the Indian Act.
Increase funding for administrative support and capacity building within First Nations to manage the registration and integration of new members.
The Government of Canada must act swiftly and decisively to address the impacts of the Indian Act’s discriminatory provisions. We urge immediate legislative reforms that uphold our inherent rights, eliminate sex-based discrimination, and provide the funding and resources necessary for our communities to thrive. By taking these steps, Canada can fulfill its commitments under the UN Declaration and ensure the survival and prosperity of B.C. First Nations for generations to come.
Sincerely,
[INSERT Chief / Leader Name and Title]
[INSERT Nation]
About Joyce’s Principle
This principle is a call to action and a commitment from governments to end an intolerable and unacceptable situation. In itself, Joyce's Principle is inspired by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (2007), Article 24, which reads as follows: 1. Indigenous peoples have the right to their traditional medicines and to maintain their health practices, including the conservation of their vital medici-
nal plants, animals and minerals. Indigenous individuals also have the right to access, without any discrimination, to all social and health services. 2. Indigenous individuals have an equal right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. States shall take the necessary steps with a view to achieving progressively the full realization of this right. The reason behind Joyce’s Principle The adoption of Joyce’s Princi-
ple will make it possible to assert the rights of Indigenous people relative to healthcare and social services in Quebec and Canada Therefore, this brief constitutes a reminder and a formal request for a commitment by the governments of Quebec and Canada (and their institutions) to respect and protect Indigenous rights relative to healthcare and social services ¾ rights that are recognized internationally.
Statement of Joyce’s Principle:
Joyce’s Principle aims to guarantee to all Indigenous people the right of equitable access, without discrimination, to all social and health services, as well as the right to enjoy the best possible physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Joyce’s Principle requires the recognition and respect of Indigenous peoples’ traditional and living knowledge in all aspects of health.
Jordan's Principle is a child-first legal principle in Canada aimed at ensuring First Nations children have equitable access to all government services without delay, denial, or disruption. It was established to address the issue of jurisdictional disputes between federal and provincial governments that were historically preventing First Nations children from accessing necessary ser-
vices. Named in memory of Jordan River Anderson, a young boy from Norway House Cree Nation who passed away while waiting for his home-based care, it ensures that First Nations children receive the services they need, when they need them, regardless of where they live or who is responsible for funding.
The "Every Child Matters" movement in Canada is a powerful initiative focused on recognizing the devastating impact of residential schools on Indigenous children and communities. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring the well-being, rights, and dignity of all children, especially Indigenous children, and promotes the idea that every child deserves respect and opportunity. The movement gained significant traction following the findings of the Truth and
Reconciliation
Commission regarding residential schools.
Key aspects of the movement include:
Raising Awareness: The movement aims to educate the public about the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous children and communities due to residential schools.
Orange Shirt Day: September 30th is designated as Orange Shirt Day, a grassroots commemorative day to honour residential school survivors and remember
the children who did not return home.
Reconciliation: The movement is a call to action for reconciliation, encouraging Canadians to reflect on the past and work towards a more just and equitable future for Indigenous peoples.
Symbolism: The orange shirt has become a powerful symbol of the “Every Child Matters” movement, representing the stripping away of Indigenous culture, freedom, and self-esteem experienced by children in residential schools.
Community Involvement
The movement encourages communities schools, and individuals to come together to learn, reflect and take action to support reconciliation. In essence, “Every Child Matter” is a reminder that the legacy of residential schools continues to affect Indigenous communities, and that acknowledging this history and working towards reconciliation is crucial for creating a better future for all children in Canada.
The Mandate of the National Inquiry
The National Inquiry must look into and report on the systemic causes of all forms of violence against Indigenous women and girls, including sexual violence. We must examine the underlying social, economic, cultural, institutional, and historical causes that contribute to the ongoing violence and particular vulnerabilities of Indigenous women and girls in Canada. The mandate also directs us to look into and report on existing institutional policies and practices to address violence, including those that are effective in reducing violence and increasing safety.
While the formal name of the Inquiry is “the
National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered
Indigenous Women and Girls,” our mandate covers all forms of violence. This makes our mandate very broad. By not being limited to investigating only cases of Indigenous women who went missing or were murdered, we can include women and girls who died under suspicious circumstances.
It also means we can address issues such as sexual assault, child abuse, domestic violence, bullying and harassment, suicide, and self-harm. This violence is interconnected, and can have equally devastating effects.
Expanding the mandate beyond missing and murdered also creates space for more
survivors to share their stories. They can help us look to the future from a place of experience, resilience, and hope.
Our Vision
Indigenous women and Two-Spirit people have traditionally been revered as life-givers and caregivers. This is why we say, “our women and girls are sacred.” But Indigenous women and girls, including those who are 2SLGBTQQIA, continue to be devalued. All too many become the victims of violence.
Our vision for the National Inquiry is to build a foundation that allows Indigenous women and girls to reclaim their power and place.
Because of Indigenous Peoples’ rich diversity, this reclaiming will look
different in different places. First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples each have their own distinct cultures, languages, and ways of life. Their communities have their own distinct political, legal, social, cultural, and economic systems. There can be no one-size-fits-all, pan-Indigenous approach. Solutions must instead be culturally appropriate to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit women and girls, their respective communities, and their Nations.
Our Mission
We will find the truth by gathering many stories from many people. These truths will weave together to show us what violence really looks like for Indigenous women and girls in Canada. We will gather this
information through: Our research is rooted in Indigenous methodology. It is governed by traditional laws and ethics that affirm the resistance and resurgence of Indigenous women and girls, including 2SLGBTQQIA people. Indigenous women’s experiences will guide our truth every step of the way.
Timeline of Key Milestones
We will honour the truth through public education. For far too long, Indigenous women and girls have been publicly devalued or ignored. People’s general perceptions have been shaped by harmful colonial stereotypes. People forget that every Indigenous woman or girl no matter how she died or what she had been through had an inherent strength and sacred worth. We need to transform the
national conversation about Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. To build a strong foundation for healing, justice, and reconciliation, governments and institutions must change. So must our society’s attitudes and understanding of the issue.
This public education begins by creating opportunities for family members and survivors to share their truths. It continues as Canadians learn more about Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. Indigenous and non-Indigenous people will have the opportunity to learn about Indigenous women’s rightful power and place: their historical and present-day roles, their leadership, and what they have to contribute. Many of these learning opportunities will take place through the
Community, Institutional, Knowledge Keeper and Expert Hearings. We will further honour the truth in our findings, recommendations, and reports, and other public education materials. As much as possible, our information will be published in different audio, visual, and paper formats to make them widely accessible. Learn more here. We will give life to the truth by creating a living legacy through commemoration and artistic expressions. Everyone affected by this issue will have the opportunity to participate in the National Inquiry by submitting an artistic response in whatever medium they choose. This will help create a new public record of history that centres on Indigenous women and girls’ experiences.
Together with family members and communities, we will make recommendations on the best ways to commemorate and honour those we have lost. Public commemoration is a powerful way to make sure that survivors are acknowledged for the suffering they have endured. It also ensures that families can let Canada know that their loved ones were cherished human beings who are still missed.
Most importantly, we will give life to the truth by teaching and learning from our children and youth. We need to give them the best possible supports now, and help them build a safer, stronger foundation for their future.
https://www.mmiwg-ffada.ca/mandate/
Pow Wow Etiquette
Key aspects include dressing modestly , listening to the Master of Ceremonies (MC), standing during Grand Entry and ceremonial songs, and asking permission before taking photos, especially of dancers in regalia.
Respectful Conduct:
Dress modestly: Avoid clothing with inappropriate slogans or revealing attire.
Listening to the MC: The Master of Ceremonies provides important information and instructions.
Standing During Ceremonies: Show respect during Grand Entry, Flag Songs and other ceremonial songs.
Respect Regalia: Do not touch or handle regalia without permission, as it is considered sacred and personal.
Ask Before Taking Photos: Always ask for permission before photographing dancers or ceremonies.
Respect the Circle: The dance arena is considered sacred, and entering without permission is discouraged.
No Drugs or Alcohol: Pow wows are drug and alcohol-free events.
Be Aware of Children: Keep children under control and avoid carrying them while dancing in the arena.
Bring Your Own Chair: Seating may be limited, so consider bringing a folding chair.
Offer Tobacco: it’s a respectful gesture to offer tobacco to the drums.
Learn About the Culture: Engage with vendors and others to learn more about the traditions.
Enjoy the Event: Pow wows are vibrant celebrations of Indigenous culture, so participate respectfully and have fun!
rulesforattendingapowwow
JUNE 2025
June 2025
1) June 6-8 North Battleford SK
2) June 12 GSCS Powwow (Merlis Belsher Place), SK
3) June 13-15 Canoe Lake FN, SK (T)
4) June 14-15 Powwow Pikogan Abitibiwinni, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, QC
