Honouring National Indigenous History Month and Indigenous Peoples Day

3 June 2025

June is National Indigenous History Month — a time to reflect, learn, and act.

At CMHA HPE, we join individuals and organizations across the country in recognizing the histories, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Urban Indigenous, the original stewards of this land.

June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day, which falls on the summer solstice, a date long celebrated by many Indigenous communities with ceremonies, gatherings and storytelling. It’s a moment to honour the strength, diversity and deep-rooted traditions that have shaped this land for millennia.

Mental health and healing: supporting Indigenous well-being

We also acknowledge the ongoing impacts of colonization, residential schools, racism and intergenerational trauma on Indigenous mental health. These injustices continue to affect communities across Turtle Island — and contribute to inequities in mental health outcomes and the social determinants of health more broadly. CMHA Niagara is committed to supporting Indigenous-led healing, reconciliation and culturally-safe care and reciprocal responsibilities with all creation. In line with this, we wanted to express gratitude for being able to share this with you and we look forward to advancing this work throughout National Indigenous History Month and beyond.

How to learn and get involved

There are many ways to take part in National Indigenous History Month. Whether you’re just starting your learning journey or deepening your understanding, here are some ideas:

Read, watch and listen

• Engage with books, films and music by Indigenous authors, artists and filmmakers.
• Follow creators and educators on platforms like the GC Indigenous Instagram account.
• Visit your local library or cultural centre for Indigenous storytelling events.

Explore Truth and Reconciliation

• Download the Reconciliation: A Starting Point app to learn about the history of residential schools, the 94 Calls to Action and Indigenous rights.
• Visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation to hear directly from survivors.
• Read the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

Understand where you are

• Use the Native Land Digital map to learn whose traditional territory you live on.
• Research how to respectfully incorporate land acknowledgements in your personal or professional settings.

Amplify Indigenous Voices

Throughout June, share and celebrate Indigenous creators, leaders and community builders using the hashtag #NIHM2025.

Resources for Indigenous Mental Health Support

If you or someone you know needs mental health support, there are culturally-grounded and trauma-informed services available:

• Hope for Wellness Helpline: 1-855-242-3310 or chat online at hopeforwellness.ca
• Talk4Healing (for Indigenous women): 1-855-554-HEAL (4325)
• Kids Help Phone Indigenous Support: Text FIRST NATIONS, INUIT or METIS to 686868

Moving beyond a month

Honouring Indigenous Peoples can’t be confined to one month. It’s a commitment to listen, to learn, to unlearn and to act. Let’s use this time to build stronger relationships with Indigenous communities across Ontario, grounded in respect, truth and shared responsibility.