Indigenous Awareness Week (IAW) - May 23-26, 2023

May 19, 2023

Dear colleagues,

From May 23 to 26, the federal public service will celebrate Indigenous Awareness Week. Created in 1992, this is an annual opportunity for each of us to learn more about the rich diversity of Indigenous cultures throughout Canada and to strengthen our relationships through common understanding.

At Parks Canada, we are committed to strengthening and enhancing relationships with Indigenous partners, and we recognize that this is a collective effort. As a team, it’s our collective responsibility to invest time and energy to gain a deeper understanding and knowledge of Indigenous cultures in Canada. By doing so, we can advance reconciliation and develop a greater appreciation of the incredibly rich diversity of Indigenous peoples, not only during Indigenous Awareness Week but also throughout the year.

In honour of Indigenous Awareness Week, the Indigenous Affairs and Cultural Heritage directorate is launching the Living Culture Learning Series. This three-session series will delve into traditional methods of sharing Indigenous knowledge while exploring some of the past threats and current challenges. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore innovative ways in which Indigenous youth are driving awareness of their cultures and creating tangible change in the world around them.

The first session of the Living Culture Series, “Storytelling & Song Two Ways”, will take place on Thursday, May 25, at 1:30 p.m. (EDT). This virtual discussion will feature Inuk throat singer and content creator Shina Novalinga and her mother Kayuula Novalinga, Inuk throat singer and Knowledge Keeper.

To further inspire you, the Indigenous Affairs and Cultural Heritage directorate has also prepared a toolkit of resources and learning opportunities in support of your learning journey. Explore workshops, movies, books, and further resources to enhance your knowledge.

I look forward to continuing our work to advance meaningful relationships with Indigenous peoples including shared decision-making, renewing Indigenous practices on lands, waters and ice, the weaving of Indigenous and western scientific knowledge systems, and increased economic opportunities.

Thank you for dedicating some of your time to this important week and for your continued hard work. 

Miigwech / Kleco / Ekosani / Maarsii / Meegwetch / Mahseecho / Mutna / Ma’na / Wopida / Hei Hei / ᖁᔭᓐᓇᒦᒃ / Qujannamiik / ᖁᐊᓇᖅᑯᑎᑦ/ Quanaqqutit / Marci Cho / Nakurmiik / ᓇᑯᕐᒦᒃ / Huy ch q’u / Kukwstsétsemc / Woliwun / Haawa / Wela’lioq / Mahsi Cho / Quyanainni / Hai’choo / Tshinashkumitin / Merci / Thank you

Ron Hallman

President & CEO

#IndigenousAwarenessWeek #StrongerTogether #ParksProud

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