Today, on June 21, the City of Grande Prairie joins our Indigenous communities in celebration of National Indigenous People’s Day.

National Indigenous People’s Day is an annual celebration of the culture, heritage, and resilience of Indigenous people here, across Treaty 8, and across Canada. June 21 holds great significance as generations of Indigenous Peoples have celebrated their culture on or around this date due to its connection to the summer solstice.

“National Indigenous People’s Day is a reminder for all of us to learn about and celebrate the beautiful, historic, and grounding culture of Indigenous Peoples.

The City of Grande Prairie exists on the traditional territory of the Cree, Beaver, Dene, and many other first nations, and we are encouraged to be walking on a path toward reconciliation alongside these and many other communities. We appreciate the teachings offered to us from surrounding Indigenous communities as the City of Grande Prairie expands our connection and service to Indigenous communities.

We hope to continue to foster positive relationships with Indigenous communities and encourage all residents to pause, reflect, and continue to learn about the diverse and complex history and heritage of Indigenous Peoples.”

- Jackie Clayton, City of Grande Prairie Mayor

In honour of National Indigenous People’s Day and in recognition of the importance of ongoing education and learning about the experiences, history, culture, and heritage of Indigenous Peoples, the City of Grande Prairie has released a reading list titled “Five Must-Reads to Explore Indigenous History and Culture” to encourage a broadening of the collective knowledge of Indigenous perspectives.

Five Must-Reads to Explore Indigenous History and Culture

1. 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act by Bob Joseph
2. Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
3. Peace Pipe Dreams by Darrell Dennis
4. The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King
5. Embers by Richard Wagamese

The City of Grande Prairie is grateful for the knowledge and expertise of local Indigenous community members Wendy Goulet, Andrea Deleeuw, and Shauna Livesey in the creation of this reading list.

“Ongoing learning and education about the experiences, history, culture, and heritage of Indigenous Peoples is critical as communities work towards reconciliation.

The resources shared in the list were curated in collaboration with local Indigenous community members to center and deepen our understanding of Indigenous perspectives and Indigenous ways of knowing as we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day.

We hope that members of the broader Grande Prairie community are encouraged to learn about Indigenous history and read books from this list.”

- Warren Nekurak, Indigenous Relations Advisor