Proclamation: National Indigenous Peoples Day - June 21, 2026
National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21, 2026
WHEREAS, June is National Indigenous History Month, and June 21st is National Indigenous Peoples Day – a day for all Canadians to learn about and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples; and
WHEREAS, generations of Indigenous people have celebrated on June 21st due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year; and
WHEREAS, in cooperation with Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada chose June 21st, the summer solstice, for National Aboriginal Day now known as National Indigenous Peoples Day; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Fort Frances formally acknowledges that it is on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe and the Métis people of Treaty Three; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Fort Frances seeks to strengthen the relationship with Indigenous communities and local organizations, and is committed to working towards reconciliation and to address the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, as well as honouring the Indigenous rights enshrined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; and
WHEREAS, the contributions of Indigenous Peoples to Fort Frances’ past, present, and future are profound but often unrecognized, we commit to lifelong learning about Reconciliation and the significant ways Indigenous residents have shaped our Town’s rich culture and vibrant communities; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Fort Frances strives to be an inclusive community and encourages all residents to reflect, learn, create long-term systemic changes, and take action in a meaningful way towards reconciliation in solidarity with the Indigenous community.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Andrew Hallikas, on behalf of Council, the Town of Fort Frances, and the Indigenous Relations Advisory Committee, do hereby proclaim June 21, 2026 as National Indigenous Peoples Day in Fort Frances, and urge my fellow citizens to recognize the contributions Indigenous Peoples have made to Fort Frances, Ontario, and Canada.
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