Last Updated on March 12, 2023
Greetings, fellow readers! Today, we shall delve into the significance of National Aboriginal Day, also known as National Indigenous Peoples Day. This national day serves as a reminder of the existence of aboriginals, the people who have been living in a particular land even before the arrival of colonists. It is a time to celebrate their unique culture, heritage, and accomplishments. Today, We shall explore the essence of this day, why it is important to recognize and celebrate it, and how we can contribute to making it a memorable experience for everyone. Let’s dive in and explore the rich history of the indigenous people and their invaluable contribution to our world!
The history behind the National Aboriginal day
National Aboriginal Day, or National Indigenous Peoples Day, is celebrated annually on June 21st in Canada. The day serves as a reminder of the Aboriginal people’s struggles, accomplishments, and unique culture, who have faced years of marginalization and discrimination.
The Indian Act, passed in 1876, denied Aboriginal People the right to self-governance and placed them under Canadian law. It was not until 1960 that they received voting rights, following years of advocacy by Indigenous groups. In 1971, the National Indian Brotherhood called for June 21 to be recognized as National Aboriginal Solidarity Day.
Finally, in 1996, the Canadian government announced the establishment of National Aboriginal Day, as the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples demanded. The day provides an opportunity to celebrate and honor the Aboriginal community’s contributions to Canadian society and raise awareness of ongoing issues affecting Indigenous people.
Facts about Aboriginals:
- The Australian Aboriginals are considered the oldest aboriginal community living outside of Africa, having been indigenous to Australia for approximately 50,000 years. It is believed that this ancient community migrated from Africa to Australia by boat, making them one of the oldest surviving cultures in the world.
- Indigenous people comprise about 5 percent of the global population, with more than 370 million indigenous individuals residing in over 90 countries. These communities have unique cultures, languages, and traditions that have been passed down through generations, shaping their way of life and identity.
- There exist more than 5000 indigenous communities on Earth, and they speak about 4000 different languages.
How to celebrate National Aboriginal Day?
National Aboriginal Day can be celebrated by:
- Telling kids and reminding adults about the existence, significance, culture, and heritage of Aboriginals who are native to the place one life in.
- To learn and experience the Aboriginal lifestyle by traveling to Aboriginal community attractions; interacting with Aboriginal descendants; learning more about them and their lifestyle; indulging in Aboriginal traditions; and tasting Aboriginal recipes.
- Celebrate the summer solstice. Aboriginals have been celebrating the day of summer solstice long before it was officially recognized as National Aboriginal Day.
- Spreading awareness on social media and using #nationalaboriginalday
Why celebrate National Aboriginal Day?
National Aboriginal Day is more than just a holiday to be celebrated. It is a day established to remember and celebrate the true inhabitants of the land. It is the day we thank them for allowing us to share a home with them. Due to modernization, Aboriginal traditions are slowly dying away and fading out of existence. National Aboriginal Day helps to preserve these dying traditions and celebrates the diversity of people. So don’t forget to celebrate this June 21!
When is National Aboriginal Day?
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | June 21 | Wednesday |
2024 | June 21 | Friday |
2025 | June 21 | Saturday |