Importance of Expanding Our Knowledge of Mi’kmaq Traditions on Indigenous People's Day

This month is Indigenous Heritage Month and today marks Indigenous People Day.  Every day, especially today it is crucial for us to expand our knowledge of Mi’kmaq traditions and reflect on how we as individuals and an organization can further uplift this community.  

Research shows that Indigenous homelessness in urban areas, such as Halifax or Toronto ranges from 20-50% of the total homeless population. Indigenous people are overly represented in the number of individuals who are unhoused and experiencing insecure housing. 

As an organization whose mandate is to support women, trans, gender-diverse people, and families experiencing poverty, gender-based violence, and housing insecurity, we continue to grow and find ways to educate our staff and clients on Indigenous culture. Taking steps to Reconciliation and adopting the Call to Action outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada is more than educating ourselves on Indigenous history and culture. It includes shifting our approach when providing care to ensure it is culturally appropriate, as well as finding ways to ensure programs uplift and adequately support Indigenous clients. It also includes striving for a work environment that empowers Indigenous staff and volunteers.  

Adopting the Calls to Action and making a commitment to change means we are using methods of support and practice that are dignified and inform on the ongoing impacts colonization has on Indigenous people and the barriers they encounter. It pushes us to not “other” communities but to allow for agency and autonomy to be placed back into the hands of Indigenous women, girls, and Puoin (Mi’kmaw word for two-spirited people).  

There are various ways we can all celebrate and honour Indigenous People’s Day today and, in the days to come. We can learn more about the land we live, work, play and benefit from. We can find ways to uplift the Indigenous community and take steps to ensure Indigenous people are not unhoused on their own land.  

Today and throughout June and July, there are various Indigenous led and supported events taking place. Some of these events include as learning opportunities available for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people can expand their knowledge on Indigenous Heritage and connected to community. Some of these events are resources are listed below.  

Resources: 

Events and Programs: 

 

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