UGDSB celebrates National Indigenous History Month

Posted June 9, 2021

June 8, 2021


GUELPH, Ontario – June is National Indigenous History Month, a month where we celebrate and recognize histories, contributions and diversity of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples in Canada.

This month, Upper Grand District School Board students and staff will have the opportunity to hear from members of the Indigenous community through virtual presentations.  

On June 2, secondary Indigenous students were invited to an Indigenous Star Knowledge workshop hosted by FNMIEAO. During the day, students participated in interactive workshops, heard from inspiring speakers and explored possibilities in STEM. Speakers included Wilfred Buck – Science Educator from the Opaskwayak Cree Nation, Juan Carlos Chavez, PhD – Yaqui Sonora Territories, Corey Gray – Siksika Nation, Annette S. Lee – Ojibwe and D/Lakota, and Kim Trimble – Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek. 

On June 3, UGDSB staff were invited to hear from Teddy Syrette, an Anishnaabe 2-Spirit person of Rankin Reserve – Batchewana First Nation (Baawaating). Syrette and is an advocate and storyteller for LGBTQ+ and Indigenous people, experiences and histories. This workshop was geared toward educators wanting to express their allyship for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Using storytelling and resource sharing, Syrette shared insights and best practices with participants that would better support students and learning environments.  

Later this month, on June 17, students will have the chance to hear from Riley Yesno. Yesno is a queer Anishinaabe writer, researcher, and public speaker from Eabametoong First Nation. Yesno has experience working at all levels of change-making, has travelled the world for public speaking events and has been published in many news outlets. Yesno is providing presentations for all grade levels including primary, junior and intermediate/senior. Presentations will include Anishinaabe Creation Stories, Colonization, Reconciliation and Landback Movement depending on the grade level.  

Recommended online resources were shared with teachers. How has your class recognized Indigenous History this month and throughout the school year? Let us know on social media using #IndigenousEd.

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