Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board is grateful to live and learn on the territory of the Three Fires Confederacy, who have lived and cared for this part of the world for thousands of years.  We value the cultures, customs, histories and relationships with the Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (North America).

For generations, many Indigenous communities have celebrated their culture at the summer solstice – the longest day of the year. June 21st, we celebrate too, during National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. 

Our students and staff at WECDSB continue to engage with First Nations, Inuit and Métis perspectives and history, through learning about Indigenous ways of knowing and hosting interactive events. We invite Indigenous voices in various ways into the classroom to prioritize the perspectives of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. This commitment extends beyond the month of June, as we continue to offer important opportunities to recognize the cultural diversity and distinct contributions of all First Nations, Métis and Inuit.

We hope that all WECDSB staff, students, families and communities take the opportunity on this day to reflect on the rich cultures and heritages of Indigenous Peoples not just in this area, but across the country known as Canada. First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples have distinct customs, languages, practices and spiritual beliefs, but they share a powerful connection with the land that they have stewarded and protected, since time immemorial.

We urge everyone to take time to respect, honour, and learn more about the first peoples of this land.  

National Indigenous Peoples Day - Canada.ca