National Indigenous Peoples Day, June 21
June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
Earlier this year, Chief Brian Francis of the Abegweit First Nation, UPEI Indigenous student Dawne Knockwood, and Elder Junior Peter Paul joined President and Vice-Chancellor Alaa Abd-El-Aziz in raising the Mi'kmaq National Flag at UPEI Alumni Canada Games Place.
“UPEI continues its efforts to infuse Indigenous ‘ways of knowing’ into the academy, as well as supporting Indigenous students on their journey to and through post-secondary education,” says President Abd-El-Aziz. “We have much work to do, but raising the Mi’kmaq national flag permanently on our campus was a symbolic affirmation of the University’s commitment. I encourage all members of the UPEI community to reflect upon and celebrate the tremendous contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples on National Indigenous Peoples Day, and every day throughout the year.”
On PEI, the Mi'kmaq Confederacy of PEI is hosting a celebration at Abegweit First Nation in Scotchfort from 2–5 pm to help "Celebrate the Culture" with drummers, dancers, and crafters and a free BBQ and children's activities. All activities are free and open to the public.
On campus, the Atlantic Council for International Co-operation will welcome renowned environmental, cultural, and human rights advocate Sheila Watt-Cloutier to their “Walking Together Towards a Sustainable Future” conference where she will deliver the keynote address tonight at 7 pm in the Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering building. Dr. Watt-Cloutier, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, is former chair of the Inuit Circumpolar Conference and speaks with passion and urgency on the issues of today. The talk is open to the public and all are welcome.
