Communities across Midwestern Ontario are marking National Indigenous Peoples Day today (June 21, 2025) with a variety of events and initiatives that honour the culture, contributions, and resilience of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
Bruce County is offering free admission to the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre, encouraging residents to learn more about local Indigenous heritage. The County is also encouraging residents to attend community events such as sunrise ceremonies, pow wows, Indigenous tourism experiences, and the Saugeen First Nation’s Community Night Market.
The County of Huron is hosting a virtual workshop titled ReconciliACTION, featuring hand drum songs, cultural teachings, and simple steps residents can take to support reconciliation. Warden Jamie Heffer said the day is an opportunity for "reflection, recognition, and respect," and reaffirmed the County’s commitment to strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities.
Meanwhile, Grey Roots Museum & Archives in Owen Sound will present two free National Film Board screenings: Birth of a Family, a documentary following siblings reunited after the Sixties Scoop, and Ninan Auassat, We, the Children, which centres the voices of Indigenous youth. The Owen Sound Transportation Company will host its first-ever Indigenous Arts and Crafts Vendors Market aboard the MS Chi-Cheemaun on June 21.
Kincardine is also promoting a range of events recognizing the history and culture of Indigenous peoples, while inviting the public to explore its reconciliation efforts at kincardine.ca/Journey.
The provincial government is recognizing June as National Indigenous History Month. Minister of Indigenous Affairs Greg Rickford is encouraging Ontarians to support Indigenous businesses, attend cultural events, and learn about treaty histories.
Held annually on the Summer Solstice (the longest day of the year), National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrates traditions, teachings, and the enduring presence of Indigenous peoples.