Honouring National Indigenous History Month

Since 2007, the Government of Canada has recognized June as National Indigenous History Month. This is a time to honour the history, culture, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across the country.

While celebration is a vital part of this month, it is also an opportune moment for reflection. It invites all Canadians to confront our shared history and consider the work still needed to advance justice and reconciliation.

Indigenous communities have long made, and continue to make, remarkable contributions to every facet of Canadian life. From land stewardship and traditional knowledge to leadership in business, governance, the arts, and beyond, Indigenous peoples are shaping a future rooted in both tradition and innovation.

National Indigenous History Month is an opportunity to spotlight these contributions and to recognize the enduring strength of cultures and languages that have flourished for thousands of years.

There are several initiatives throughout Manitoba that aim to highlight these contributions, such as the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s Qaumajuq centre showcasing the largest collection of Inuit art in the world, as well as the Musée de Saint-Boniface which includes installations of Métis history.

At the same time, this month is a solemn reminder of the lasting impacts of colonialism, including the intergenerational trauma caused by the residential school system, among other things. Honouring Indigenous history means acknowledging these injustices, listening to Indigenous voices, and actively supporting community-led efforts toward reconciliation.

For the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (ICC), National Indigenous History Month underscores the vital role of economic reconciliation. Our work is rooted in the belief that Indigenous leadership in business and entrepreneurship, and the development of Indigenous economies, is key to building prosperous communities.

Empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, artists, professionals, and knowledge keepers is not only smart economics, but is also a means to cultural preservation and celebration –– often overlooked yet crucially important.

Engaging meaningfully with Indigenous history and culture is important during this month. Attending local events, supporting Indigenous-owned businesses, and learning about the history of the communities who have been here since time immemorial is essential. Even more important is that reflection must be paired with action.

It is for this reason that we at the ICC have been deeply committed to developing local entrepreneurship and businesses in Indigenous communities throughout the province and across the country. National Indigenous History Month is more than a commemoration –– it is an invitation to deepen our understanding, renew our commitment to reconciliation, and celebrate the brilliance and strength of Indigenous peoples. Let us honour these communities not just in June, but every day.