National Indigenous History Month - June 2023
June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, and the Town of Aurora will be joining communities across Canada in providing the opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. It's a time to honour the stories, achievements and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues to impact an evolving Canada.
Visit National Indigenous Peoples Month to learn about the celebrations happening across Canada.
We urge all Canadians to take the time to celebrate and learn more about the diverse cultural heritage of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
Message from Traditional Grandmother Kim Wheatley
We are honoured to share this message of learning and greeting from Traditional Grandmother Kim Wheatley on this National Indigenous Peoples Day.
Three Sisters Soup Kits
For those interested in trying out a new recipe with a Three Sisters Soup Kit, they are for sale by pre-registration through e-PLAY. Registration will open on June 5. Kits are to be picked up at the Aurora Farmers Market.
Do you know the Three Sisters Story?
- There is a lot we can all learn about from it. Here is an article sharing one perspective.
Want to try a new culinary dish to make at home?
- Learn how to make Three Sisters soup by following along with this Food Demonstration video.
Order a Soup Kit
- You can also order your own Three Sisters Soup Kit which comes with all of the main market fresh ingredients and instructions required to make 4 servings.
- Pick-up the fresh market kit on Saturday, June 17 from 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. at Aurora Town Park during the Aurora’s Farmers Market. Any kits not picked up will be donated and refunds will not be permitted.
- Order Three Sisters Soup Kit
Symbols & Imagery
Learn more about the symbols and imagery.
In-Person Programming
The Town of Aurora invites residents and visitors to participate in a variety of Indigenous History Month gatherings.
Saturday, June 3 - Indigenous Crafting |
In partnership with the Aurora Farmers Market, families are invited to make a turtle craft while learning about the significance of turtles in the Indigenous culture. |
Saturday, June 10 - Indigenous Crafting |
In partnership with the Aurora Farmers Market, families are invited to make a bee craft while learning about the significance of pollinators in the Indigenous culture. |
Saturday, June 17 - Indigenous Crafting & Seed Planting |
In partnership with the Aurora Farmers Market, families are invited to make corn husk dolls and the learn the story behind this faceless doll. This activity will be focused on the Three Sisters Story. As the focus for the day is on the story of the Three Sisters, there will be a hands-on Indigenous Seed Planting Activity where you can plant your own seeds using an Indigenous technique and grow something delicious. |
Wednesday, June 21 - National Indigenous Peoples Day & Live Concert |
In celebrating this day, the Town of Aurora has partnered with the York Region Arts Council (Y.R.A.C.) with the Y.R. Experience Trail Marker Project which includes an 8-foot-tall art installation to be unveiled in Aurora Town Park. Y.R.A.C. commissioned Indigenous artist Donald Chretien to create the original designs that invite the observer to take an active role in the experience, becoming part of the artwork. This large circular shape trail marker is designed to invite people to stand in front of the art and to be come part of the art. The Dave Mowat and Trio band will be performing a live concert in the bandshell. New this year, we will be starting off the Aurora’s Concerts in the Park series early with this fantastic Indigenous trio. This concert will give us the Chicago, Delta and Country blues feel for the night from a bygone era. |
Saturday, June 24 - Indigenous Crafting & Story Telling |
In partnership with the Aurora Farmers Market, families are invited to make a strawberry themed craft while learning about the significance of strawberries in the Indigenous culture. During the Farmers Market, enjoy learning from Anishinaabe Grandmother Kim Wheatley through story telling. |
Interactive Activities
The following websites offer incredible and interactive activities to learn from and participate in.
Google Earth |
Takes you on a tour of nine significant points in Canada, describing Hoop dancing, smudging, basket weaving, totem poles, beading and more. Visit Google Earth to see Indigenous Cultural Heritage. |
The Word Indigenous - CBC Kids News |
What does Indigenous mean? What is the significance of Indigenous people in Canada? Check out this great video created by CBC Kids News for the answers. |
Where can I Learn more about Indigenous People in Canada? - CBC Kids |
This website offers different online resources and printable activities, including word searches, activity booklets, and games. Check out the CBC Kids website for full details. |
Learn more about First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples across Canada |
This learning portal provides access to various resources to learn more about Indigenous history, languages, cultures and experiences. This learning material is Indigenous created or co-created. |
Activities for Kids |
Learn about Indigenous history and culture while playing cruncher. The whole family can get involved. |