Join us in honouring Indigenous People and Communities
By listening to stories, histories, and worldviews as told by Indigenous voices, we embrace opportunities for discovery, healing, reconciliation, and a future in which everyone can thrive. Learn about Indigenous People and Communities by picking up a book, watching a film or TV show, or listening to music by Indigenous artists and storytellers.
Visit SPL to dig deeper into the immeasurable contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.
- Learn about Truth, Reconciliation and your Library
- Truth & Reconciliation Resources: Stratford's Equity Community Collective
*Banner image by Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun (b. 1957), New Climate Landscape (Northwest Coast Climate Change), 2019, acrylic on canvas , 193 x 243.8 cm , Purchase 2020, BMO Financial Group, Image courtesy of Sarah Macaulay & Co. Fine Art, McMichael Canadian Art Collection, 2020.10
Native-Land.ca aims to improve the relationship of people, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, with the land around them and with the real history and sacredness of that land. This involves acknowledging and righting the wrongs of history, and also involves a personal journey through the importance of connecting with the earth, its creatures, and its teachings.
The best way to gain a deeper understanding of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis experiences is through their own voices. By understanding the unique histories, sacrifices, cultures, contributions and strengths of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples we can create a brighter future.
From album-length music videos, to animated shorts, to documentaries from masters of the form, Indigenous filmmakers are bringing the noise.
A comprehensive collection of online resources to spark joy and learning, and foster good relations. The collection focuses on Oneida, Ojibwe, and Haudenosaunee resources for Indigenous Communities, and settlers.
The mission of the Moccasin Identifier Project is: "To educate children on Treaties through the Education Kit, promote Indigenous culture, and history on the landscape through moccasin site installations." Check out this kit using your library card to discover more about Treaties, culture, and Indigenous linguistic diversity across Ontario.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission report recommends children’s books be published in Indigenous languages which were, and remain, suppressed in Canada. One way Indigenous Peoples are working to revitalize their languages is through literature. These children’s books incorporate English and Indigenous languages within their pages.
Days of Significance
- June 21: National Indigenous Peoples Day
- September 30: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation / Orange Shirt Day
- October 4: National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls & Gender Diverse People
- November 1-30: Indigenous Disability Awareness Month
- November 6-12: Treaties Recognition Week
- November 8: National Aboriginal Veteran’s Day
Further Resources
Indigenous Canada - Free Online Course from University of Alberta
Woodland Cultural Centre - Brantford
National Inquiry - Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
United Nations Declaration on Indigenous Peoples
Canadian Federation of Library Associations - Truth & Reconciliation Report