June marks Indigenous History Month; a time to honour, reflect, and learn.
As a Chamber, we stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities across Ontario and Canada. We acknowledge the deep-rooted history and ongoing impacts of colonization, and we commit to the path of truth and reconciliation not only this month, but every month.
We continue to learn and listen, recognizing that reconciliation is not a checklist, but a lifelong responsibility.
We encourage our members to take time to reflect, educate, and engage meaningfully in the work of reconciliation. Follow the link in our bio to access some incredible resources to expand your understanding and knowledge on Indigenous communities in Canada, as well as a book list.
Reconciliation starts with awareness. Accessing resources is just the beginning. We will continue to encourage our community and our Chamber to keep learning, reflecting, and making space for Indigenous voices each and every month.
Indigenous Education Resources & Recommended Reading
Books to Deepen Your Understanding:
21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act by Bob Joseph: A concise, accessible explanation of the Indian Act’s legacy and ongoing impact.
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer: A beautiful blend of Indigenous knowledge, botany, and environmental stewardship.
They Called Me Number One by Bev Sellars: A memoir of residential school survival and resilience in British Columbia.
Indigenous Writes by Chelsea Vowel: A powerful collection of essays unpacking Indigenous topics and myths in Canada.
A Mind Spread Out on the Ground by Alicia Elliott: A moving collection of personal essays on intergenerational trauma, identity, and healing.
Websites & Learning Hubs:
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation nctr.ca
Home of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s findings and calls to action.
Native Land Digital native-land.ca
An interactive map to learn about the Indigenous territories you live and work on.
Indigenous Canada (Free Online Course by the University of Alberta) coursera.org
A free, in-depth course covering Indigenous histories and contemporary issues.
Assembly of First Nations afn.ca
A national advocacy organization representing First Nations citizens.
Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres ofifc.org
A great resource for connecting with Indigenous Friendship Centres across Ontario.
