National Indigenous History Month 2026: Living Histories, Shared Responsibilities

Photo: Elder Ann Smith at a Spirit North event

National Indigenous History Month is a celebration of the strength, cultures, knowledge, and leadership of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples, and a reminder that these histories and contributions extend far beyond a single month. Indigenous histories are living, evolving, and shaping our present and future.

Throughout June, and especially on June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day, we honour the knowledge systems, stewardship, and leadership of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, and recognize the enduring contributions Indigenous communities continue to make across every part of the land.

But recognition, celebration and learning must also move beyond awareness into action.

For many communities across this land, treaties remain living agreements that define shared responsibilities, guide how we live together, and shape relationships between First Nations peoples and the Crown. This year marks the 150th anniversary of Treaty 6, which is a pact grounded in promises of mutual benefit and shared prosperity between peoples in central Canada. The CRRF is honoured to build a relationship with and support the Office of the Treaty Commissioner Saskatchewan in their work to strengthen partnerships between First Nations and municipalities by developing policies that uphold and advance the Treaty relationship. In doing so, this important work contributes to a stronger foundation for reconciliACTION grounded in shared respect, understanding, and commitment.

The devastating legacy of residential schools stands as one of the clearest examples of the breach of treaty relationships that were meant to be grounded in mutual respect, coexistence, and shared responsibility rather than policies of forced assimilation and cultural erasure. Over 150,000 First Nations, Métis and Inuit children attended these schools, and their harmful impact affects Indigenous communities to this day.

In recognition of this history, and in support of continued learning, reflection, and dialogue, the CRRF is also partnering with the Woodland Cultural Centre to offer Silent No More—an impactful virtual tour exploring the legacy of Indian residential schools in Canada. The first event will take place on June 12, 2026.

Stay tuned this month for additional community-led initiatives we are proud to support, including the Rock Your Roots Walk in Saskatoon and O’Kanata: Voices of the Land – Indigenous History Month Community Showcase, alongside Nawican Friendship Centre’s Young Builders of Hope: Indigenous Youth Reclaiming Identity & Leading Change. These efforts, together with Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nation’s Voices of the Ancestors animated youth storytelling initiative, the work of U’mista Cultural Society, Métis Nation of Ontario Cultural Commission’s Reconciliation Through Art, Ampere’s Empowering Inuit Youth for Cultural Expression, and Qaujigiartiit Health Research Centre’s Voices of Inuit Innait (Elders): Pathways Through Trauma and Promoting Mental, Spiritual, and Emotional Health, reflect the strength of Indigenous communities in reclaiming narratives, uplifting youth voices, advancing healing, and carrying forward language, culture, and knowledge systems across generations.

As this reflection continues beyond National Indigenous History Month, the CRRF remains committed to working with Indigenous communities across the country to build meaningful relationships and long term, sustainable collaboration.

The following words from Elder Ruth Mercredi, Dene Elder, Knowledge Keeper, and traditional healer and counselor in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, reflect the spirit of resilience, hope, and collective responsibility that continues to guide this journey:

To our Indigenous people on Turtle Island and the world, I would like to remind you all and encourage our people that we are powerful and fearless peoples and the world is waiting for our way of life. Let’s move this power together with love, compassion and friendship. Let’s be the change we want to see; it starts with us.

Elder Ruth Mercredi