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Meaningful Ways to Mark Indigenous History Month

Seven Meaningful Ways to Mark National Indigenous History Month

June is National Indigenous History Month, and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. At the First Nations Health Foundation, our mission is to bridge funding gaps and knowledge gaps. Learning is an important part of reconciliation—and meaningful change often begins with small, intentional actions.

The good news? You don’t need to be an expert to get started. 

This month, we invite you to choose one action that helps deepen your understanding of First Nations peoples, cultures, histories, and contemporary realities. We’re sharing a few recommendations from our team below. Every step forward matters.

1. Support Indigenous-Owned Businesses

Every purchase is an opportunity to support Indigenous entrepreneurs, artists, and makers. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, hiring services, or choosing where to spend your dollars, supporting Indigenous-owned businesses helps strengthen local economies, create opportunities, and amplify Indigenous success stories.

  • Corvina Designs, created by contemporary Coast Salish Artist Raven Wolden who is a member of the Sts’Ailes First Nation and currently located in S’ólh Téméxw, the Stó:lō Traditional Territory, is a supporter of the Foundation’s Silent Auction. Our CEO is a big fan of her jewelry. Learn more here: corvina.design.ca
  • Red Cedar Woman, owned and operated by Coast Salish Weaver Jessica Silvey, creates unique and authentic Indigenous items. From cedar bark baskets, mats, and hats to Salish Blankets and throw pillow using wool dyed with traditional food and medicine plants. Our Director of Development has participated in many cedar weaving workshops over the years as childhood friends with Jessica’s children. Learn more here: redcedarwoman.com

2. Read a Book by an Indigenous Author

Stories have the power to challenge assumptions, build empathy, and expand our understanding of the world. Whether you choose fiction, memoir, poetry, or history, reading Indigenous voices offers perspectives that cannot be learned through headlines or social media alone.

Our team is currently reading:

  • The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer
  • Reconciling: A Lifelong Struggle to Belong by Larry Grant in conversation with Scott Steedman

3. Attend an Indigenous Event

Throughout June, communities across British Columbia host cultural celebrations, markets, performances, exhibitions, and gatherings. Showing up is an opportunity to listen, learn, and celebrate the richness and diversity of First Nations cultures and traditions. 

4. Learn Whose Lands You Live On

Many people know the name of their city but not the First Nations whose territories they call home. Take time to learn about the Nations connected to the lands where you live, work, learn, and gather. Understanding place is an important step toward understanding history, relationships, and responsibility.

Our team uses these two sites as first steps:

Then we recommend going to the municipality’s website to learn more.

5. Share Knowledge with the Next Generation

Children are naturally curious and eager to learn. Whether through books, conversations, cultural events, or school activities, helping young people learn a more complete story of Canada contributes to a future built on understanding and respect.

  • I Love My Life by Dr. Peter Eppinga – Dr. Eppinga is a Director on the First Nations Health Authority Board
  • White Raven by Teoni Spathelfer – this one is a favourite of our CEO’s six-year-old son

6. Have a Conversation

Reconciliation doesn’t happen in silence. Talk with friends, family members, colleagues, or classmates about what you’re learning. Ask questions. Share resources. Be open to new perspectives. Sometimes meaningful change begins with a single conversation. 

Listen to some good conversations on the Good Medicine Podcast with Ashley Pimlott: soundcloud.com/northernnative/sets/good-medicine-journey-fm

7. Follow Indigenous Voices

Seek out Indigenous artists, educators, authors, leaders, entrepreneurs, and content creators. Making Indigenous perspectives part of your everyday reading, listening, and learning helps ensure that Indigenous voices remain part of the conversation long after June has ended.

Our team follows:

  • @ktunaxapride – Aiyana Twigg /Kⱡawat̓inak Paⱡki· /Sa’tahtaki: BA, M.Ed, PhD Student, Language Activist, Scholar, Youth Leader, Keynote Speaker
  • Geena Jackson | LinkedIn – Geena Jackson: Bold Dreams Builder, Indigenous Change-Maker & Keynote Speaker, Creator of Bears’ Lair TV & Dream Camps, Indigenous Entrepreneurship & Procurement Champion, Shíshálh / Sechelt Nation, BC

Learning is a Journey

No one learns everything in a month. The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is participation. Choose one action. Start there. Then keep going.

At the First Nations Health Foundation, we believe stronger relationships, greater understanding, and meaningful partnerships help create healthier futures for First Nations people and communities throughout British Columbia. Bonus: Number 8! Make a donation to an Indigenous-led organization like ours. We invite you to support our work to advance First Nations-led health & wellness initiatives and continue to bridge funding and knowledge gaps. Please donate or join our 50/50 Raffle. 

Together, we can help advance self-determined health and wellness for First Nations people across BC.

Donate today: fnhfoundation.ca/donate-today