Every June, people across Canada come together to celebrate National Indigenous History Month. It’s a time to reflect on the rich cultures, languages, art, teachings, and histories of First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and other Indigenous communities across Turtle Island (a name many Indigenous peoples use to refer to North America).
The MSA is committed to learning, unlearning, and standing alongside Indigenous students in their experiences, celebrations, and calls for change. We invite you to do the same—not just during Indigenous History Month, but all year long!
Learn about Indigenous History in Canada
Before Canada became a country, many Indigenous Peoples understood the land as part of Turtle Island—a turtle carrying the world on its back, as referenced in The Canadian Encyclopedia. For generations, Indigenous communities lived in deep relationship with the land, guided by the cycles of nature, the changing seasons, and their own teachings which had been passed on through generations. By exploring Indigenous history, we can honour the enduring cultures, knowledge, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples and deepen our understanding of the lasting impacts of colonization in Canada.
Indigenous History Learning Resource List:
Explore Indigenous Art
If you live in Hamilton, you don’t have to go far to experience the richness of Indigenous art. At Mohawk College, students can visit the Centre for Indigenous Relations, Knowledge and Learning (CIRKL) to see its heart berry plant logo—ode’min in Anishnaabemowin (the Ojibwe language)—designed by Lacey King-Smith, a First Nations Two-Spirit Graphic Design alum.
Local Indigenous Art List:
Support Indigenous-Owned Businesses
Supporting Indigenous-owned businesses is a great way to help preserve Indigenous cultures and knowledge, promote sustainable and environmentally conscious practices, and strengthen the economy for everyone in Canada. It can be as simple as grabbing a coffee from Birch Bark Coffee Company, an Indigenous-owned brand proudly served at Brewed Awakenings on Mohawk’s Fennell Campus.
Indigenous-Owned Businesses in Hamilton
Immerse Yourself in Indigenous Content and Teachings
It’s important to recognize that Indigenous people are not responsible for teaching none-Indigenous people about their history, culture, languages, experiences, or the ongoing impacts of colonization. It’s the responsibility of the descendants of the first settlers to read books written by Indigenous authors, watch movies made by Indigenous filmmakers, and attend classes and workshops taught by Indigenous instructors.
Indigenous Workshops, Classes, and Content List:
Be an Ally
Being an ally to Indigenous communities across Turtle Island means more than showing support—it means taking meaningful action. It involves amplifying and listening to Indigenous voices, committing to personal learning and reflection, supporting Indigenous-led initiatives and spaces, and contributing time or resources to Indigenous community organizations.