Selfadvocatenet.com in Support of National Indigenous History Month 2026
National Indigenous History Month is a dedicated time every June in Canada to recognize and celebrate the rich history, heritage, diversity, and enduring contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. It is also an important period for reflection, education, and advancing reconciliation.
- History: Originally designated by the House of Commons as “National Aboriginal History Month” in 2009, the commemoration was officially renamed “National Indigenous History Month” in 2017 to align with contemporary terminology.
- Diverse Communities: The month highlights the distinct cultures, languages, and traditional knowledge of Canada’s three recognized Indigenous groups: First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.
- National Indigenous Peoples Day: Celebrated on June 21 (coinciding with the summer solstice), this specific day is set aside to formally honour and celebrate Indigenous heritage. Local communities typically host festivals, ceremonies, and cultural performances.
- Reconciliation: Along with celebration, the month serves as a time for non-Indigenous Canadians to acknowledge the ongoing impacts of colonization, read historical records, and commit to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
- Reading books or watching documentaries by Indigenous creators.
- Taking free online courses (such as the University of Alberta’s Indigenous Canada course).
- Participating in local community events and ceremonies.
The House of Commons designated June as National Aboriginal History Month in 2009. The name was changed to National Indigenous History Month in 2017.
Approximately 30% to 35% of Indigenous people in Canada live with a disability, a figure that stands significantly higher than the non-Indigenous average of 22%. Statistics Canada data compiled by advocacy groups like Indigenous Disability Canada (IDC/BCANDS) indicates that over 500,000 Indigenous individuals across Canada navigate one or more disabilities.
- First Nations (living off-reserve): 32% live with at least one disability.
- Métis: 30% live with at least one disability.
- Inuit: 19% live with at least one disability. This lower percentage is heavily influenced by the younger average age profile of the Inuit population
- Age vs. Prevalence: Within specific age cohorts, the disability rate for Indigenous populations can jump to three times higher than the national average. [1]
- Gender Disparity: Across First Nations, Métis, and Inuit populations, Indigenous women experience higher rates of disability than men. [1]
- Severity: Among those reporting disabilities, 40% of First Nations and Métis individuals—and 33% of Inuit individuals—live with conditions classified as “severe” or “very severe”. [1]
- Primary Condition Types: Pain-related disabilities are the most common type reported across all three Indigenous groups, followed closely by mental health-related and flexibility challenges.
- Workplace Barriers: A 2024 KPMG survey published by the Canadian Association for Supported Employment (CASE) revealed that 61% of Indigenous workers with disabilities experience workplace ableism.
- Economic Insecurity: Indigenous peoples living with disabilities are disproportionately represented in lower income groups and face significantly higher rates of unemployment and housing insecurity.
- Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310 (Available 24/7 for all Indigenous peoples across Canada).
- Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645.
Statement by Prime Minister Carney on National Indigenous History Month
Indigenous Peoples have been stewards of lands and waters in Canada since time immemorial. Thousands of years before any European arrival, Indigenous Peoples mapped this continent, sustained its lands and waters, and built trading networks from coast to coast to coast. Today, they are shaping Canada’s future – revitalising languages, promoting cultures and traditions, and building resilient, dynamic economies for all.
Our government is working directly with Indigenous Peoples to build stronger nation-to-nation, Inuit-Crown, and government-to-government relationships. We are building in partnership – more homes, community infrastructure, and major projects – by working with Indigenous Peoples to accelerate opportunities that unlock greater security and prosperity in their communities.
We are strengthening essential services for Indigenous communities with a $4.3 billion investment through the Spring Economic Update 2026. This will provide services such as health care, culturally relevant education, and increased access to nutritious food to Indigenous communities across Canada. We are also moving forward on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, 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.
Reconciliation is the ongoing commitment of all Canadians, not that of a single government or generation. It is an ongoing task that must be lived and practised every day. While progress has been made, much work still remains to achieve the full potential of what we can build together. In confronting the darkest chapters of our nation’s past, we can lay a stronger foundation on which to build a better future, together.”
This on Prime Ministers Website go to the link here
National Indigenous History Month: Murray Sinclair
Honouring National Indigenous History Month – New infographic designed by CLBC’s Indigenous Relations team
June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. This time of year is dedicated to learning about and celebrating the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
We recognize the distinct and enduring relationships that First Nations have with their lands in what is now known as British Columbia, and acknowledge Inuit and Metis peoples who live, work and build community on these lands. It is a time to recognize the ongoing impacts of colonization and to reflect on how we can all contribute to reconciliation.
National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year – a time when Indigenous communities have celebrated their cultures, languages, and traditions for generations. This year marks the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day!
New IR version of CLBC’s Requesting Services Infographic
CLBC is dedicated to strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) we support and providing culturally safer supports and services.
To support our staff working with Indigenous peoples and families in culturally safer ways, the Indigenous Relations (IR) team has created a new version of CLBC’s What to expect when requesting support from CLBC infographic.
The new version is intended to support Indigenous peoples and families to better understand who CLBC is, how to request support, and what to expect when working with CLBC. The infographic uses language and visual elements intended to be respectful and welcoming, and to support a sense of safety for those connecting with CLBC for the first time. This work reflects ongoing commitment to listening, learning and improving how CLBC engages with Indigenous communities.
This on CLBC website go to the link here
The 2023-2028 United Nations Declaration on the rights of Indigenous People Act Action Plan
Page 1. The History, Part 1. Canada’s Residential Schools: The History, Part 1. Origins to 1939.
The Final Report of the. Truth and Reconciliation. Commission
The Indian Act is a Canadian federal law first enacted in 1876, with the purpose of controlling and assimilating First Nations peoples into Euro-Canadian society. It defines who is legally considered an “Indian” and outlines the relationship between the Canadian government and registered First Nations individuals and bands. The Act has been amended numerous times, but it remains a controversial piece of legislation due to its history of paternalistic and assimilationist policies.
- Defining “Indian”:
The Act defines who is considered an “Indian” for the purposes of federal legislation, primarily through the concept of Indian status.
- Reserve Lands:
It manages reserve lands, which are lands set aside for the use and benefit of First Nations.
- Band Governance:
The Act establishes a system of band councils, often imposed by the government, to govern First Nations communities.
- Assimilation:
The Act has historically been used to assimilate Indigenous peoples, including through residential schools and forced enfranchisement.
- Ongoing Impacts:
The Indian Act has had profound and ongoing impacts on First Nations cultures, economies, politics, and communities.
- Paternalism and Control:
Critics argue that the Act gives the Canadian government excessive control over the lives of First Nations people, interfering with their self-governance and cultural practices.
- Assimilationist Goals:
The Act’s historical and ongoing aim of assimilation is seen as a violation of Indigenous rights and self-determination.
- Sex-Based Discrimination:
While Bill S-3 has eliminated some sex-based inequities in registration, historical discriminatory practices continue to have residual impacts.
- Ongoing Impacts on Communities:
The Act has contributed to intergenerational trauma and continues to affect First Nations communities in various ways.
- The Indian Act remains in effect, though it has been amended many times.
- The Canadian government is engaged in ongoing efforts to address the remaining inequities in registration and membership.
- There is a growing movement among Indigenous peoples to assert their inherent rights to self-determination and to move away from the Indian Act system.
About the Guides
Respectful Engagement with Indigenous Peoples Guide
The Respectful Engagement with Indigenous Peoples Guide, available here, was created to emphasize the value of relationships and designed to help CLBC staff and service providers learn how to work alongside Indigenous Peoples in a respectful way.
The guide includes high-level engagement guidance and direction from VP, Quality Assurance and Indigenous Relations, Joanne Mills. In her opening remarks, Joanne shares, “This guide is not just a tool – it is a commitment. A commitment to doing better, to being more thoughtful, and to uploading the principles of respect, reciprocity, and responsibility in every interaction we have with Indigenous individuals, families, Nations, and organizations.”
Territorial Acknowledgements Guide
The Territorial Acknowledgments Guide, available here, is one of many ways that CLBC is working towards Truth and Reconciliation.
It is a living document for CLBC Staff and the community living sector. It is intended as a guide and learning resource to build greater mutual understanding and to help in working alongside Indigenous Peoples, their communities, and organizations in a respectful and meaningful way.
Indigenous peoples in Canada experience significantly higher rates of disability compared to the non-Indigenous population, with approximately 30% reporting a disability. This disparity highlights the impact of historical and ongoing systemic issues, including colonialism and limited access to resources, on the health and well-being of Indigenous communities.
- Approximately 30% of First Nations people living off-reserve, Métis, and Inuit individuals aged 15 and older report having at least one disability.
- This is significantly higher than the 22% of the non-Indigenous population with disabilities.
- A considerable portion of Indigenous people with disabilities experience severe or very severe limitations in their daily lives.
- Indigenous peoples with disabilities face unique challenges due to the intersection of their Indigenous identity and disability status.
- This can lead to increased poverty, unemployment, lower educational attainment, and higher rates of incarceration.
- Barriers to accessing healthcare, social services, and other essential supports can be more pronounced for this population.
- While acknowledging the challenges, it’s crucial to recognize the strength, resilience, and cultural knowledge within Indigenous communities.
- Many Indigenous individuals focus on their contributions to their families and communities rather than solely on the limitations imposed by their disabilities.
- Cultural perspectives on disability can differ, with some communities not having a direct translation for the concept of “disability”.
- Efforts to address the needs of Indigenous peoples with disabilities require a distinctions-based approach, recognizing the unique experiences of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
- Promoting accessibility in public services, workplaces, and communities is essential.
- Strengthening culturally safe and responsive programs and services is crucial.
- Increasing awareness and understanding of the issues faced by Indigenous peoples with disabilities is vital for fostering positive change.
- Canada Disability Benefit:
The federal government is developing a Canada Disability Benefit to provide financial support to low-income individuals with disabilities.
- Indigenous Disability Canada (BCANDS):
This organization works to promote the rights and well-being of Indigenous peoples with disabilities in Canada.
- Assembly of First Nations Accessibility Hub:
This hub provides resources and support for building accessible First Nations governments.
- Jordan’s Principle:
This initiative ensures equitable access to health, social, and educational services for First Nations children, regardless of where they live or whether they are registered as Status Indians.
Rick Hansen Foundation
Indigenous Disability Awareness Month – A Conversation with Dr. Rheanna Robinson and Lisa Smith
Indigeneity and Disability in our Schools
Indigenous People Songs
FASTFOKUS – Lil’wat First Nation – Daniel & Alex Wells
