Algoma University will be hosting several events to celebrate and commemorate National Indigenous History Month and Indigenous People’s Day.

National Indigenous History Month and Indigenous Peoples Day are commemorated each June to recognize, celebrate and honour the history, culture and diversity of the First Nation, Métis and Inuit peoples in Canada – past and present. It’s a time to honour Indigenous people’s stories, achievements and resilience across Turtle Island, celebrating unique heritage and diverse cultures.

Algoma University and the Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre (AARC) is extending a warm invitation to all to celebrate through participation in several activities planned for June’s National Indigenous History Month and Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. This year’s theme is Waasa Inaabidaa (We Look in All Directions). Additionally, Algoma University is partnering with the City of Brampton for the Anishinaabe Scholar Speaker Series and co-sponsoring its National Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration on June 21.

Paul Sayers, Manager of Indigenous Community Relations, Training, and Development at Algoma University, is welcoming all community members to engage in the upcoming National Indigenous History Month activities. 

“Algoma University and the AARC encourage participation in the events organized by local Indigenous communities and organizations, and we’re thrilled to share our culture and celebrate together – in-person or virtually,” said Sayers.

Below are some highlights of National Indigenous History Month events across Algoma’s three campus communities. Full details will be available on Algoma University’s online calendar.

SAULT STE. MARIE Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre (AARC) Open House Date: June 4, 2024 Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location: Algoma University campus, Speakeasy  The second annual Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre (AARC) Open House at the Speakeasy is open to Algoma University and local Indigenous communities. For more information, see the Facebook Page. Scott Wabano: Self Love: Hope, Culture & Strength Workshop Date: June 11, 2024 Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Location: Algoma University campus, Speakeasy OR Virtual Algoma University’s Sault Ste. Marie campus will welcome Scott Wabano, who will present on Self Love: Hope, Culture, and Strength. More information on Scott can be found at https://scottwabano.com/. The virtual option can be found here. Virtual Paint Class with Two-Spirited Ojibwe Artist Patrick Hunter Date: June 17, 2024 Time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Location: Algoma University campus, Doc Brown Lounge OR Virtual Community members are welcome to join the AARC in welcoming Ojibwe Artist Patrick Hunter for a virtual paint class. In this session, participants will learn the fundamentals of painting techniques in a fun and positive environment, the importance of mental health and healing through the arts, and the spiritual significance and history of the Woodland Art form in Indigenous communities. Space is limited to 20 participants, and supplies will be provided.  Register here.

BRAMPTON National Indigenous People’s Day Celebrations Date: June 21, 2024 Time: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.   Location: Ken Whillans Square  Algoma University’s AARC will co-sponsor the City of Brampton’s National Indigenous People’s Day Celebrations.

TIMMINS National Indigenous People’s Day Celebrations Date: June 21, 2024 Time: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.   Location: Hollinger Park Community members are welcome to visit Algoma University  Timmins at their booth as they join in the  National Indigenous People’s Day Celebrations with the Timmins Indigenous Organizations Committee at Hollinger Park – Timmins. Stay tuned to the AARC’s Facebook page for an upcoming detailed agenda.

VIRTUAL AARC Speaker Series – Shirley Horn Webinar Date: June 20, 2024 Time: 10 am. to 11:30 a.m.   Location: The Conservatory, Brampton City Hall (virtual) As part of the AARC’s Anishinaabe Scholar Speaker Series, Algoma University is pleased to co-partner with the City of Brampton to virtually welcome Elder and Survivor Shirley Horn, co-founder of the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association, who will discuss her fascinating life journey. Additionally, the AARC’s Paul Sayers will discuss Chief Shingwaukonce’s connection to the City of Brampton.  Join here via Zoom Star Knowledge Webinar Date: June 12, 2024 Time: 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Join Melanie Goodchild, PhD, as she moderates a panel discussion for her Astronomy Yarning Circle. Representatives from the Canadian Association of Science Centres will provide their unique perspectives on their keen interest and curiosity in star knowledge. Join here via Zoom

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