(Ottawa, ON) – June 15, 2023 – The Legacy of Hope Foundation (LHF) is pleased to commemorate National Indigenous Heritage Month. This month-long recognition highlights the profound contributions and unique histories of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. We extend our heartfelt recognition to the resilient and inspiring Indigenous Peoples all throughout Turtle Island. We also wish to acknowledge our non-Indigenous allies, whose active participation in during this month and year round, demonstrates their commitment to the journey towards Reconciliation. Their engagement and action are crucial components in the transformative path of hope, healing and unity for the future.

National Indigenous History Month is an opportunity for every Canadian to deepen their understanding of the rich histories and the remarkable contributions of Indigenous Peoples to the collective fabric of Canada. This observance pays tribute to the past, acknowledges the present, and looks forward to the futures of all in Canada. It is a time to confront the effects of colonialism on our communities, cultures and Nations, while simultaneously celebrating their distinctive languages, cultures, customs, traditions and resilience.

Executive Director and In-House Legal Counsel, Teresa Edwards, also emphasized the importance of reflection during this month. “National Indigenous History Month is not just a celebration, but also a poignant reminder of our shared history, the strength of our peoples, and the work still needed to address discrimination. As we mark this month, we invite Canadians to join us in a commitment to learning, understanding, and taking meaningful actions towards Reconciliation.”

Within this month, is National Indigenous Peoples Day (formerly known as National Aboriginal Day), which is a day created to recognize and celebrate Indigenous Peoples. It is fitting that this should take place on June 21st, Summer Solstice – a time of spiritual significance for many Indigenous Peoples – and a perfect opportunity to truly celebrate Indigenous Peoples and culture.

The LHF is a national, Indigenous-led, charitable organization that has been working to promote healing and Reconciliation in Canada for over 23 years. The LHF’s goal is to educate Canadians about the history and existing intergenerational impacts of the Residential and Day School Systems and subsequent Child Welfare System on Indigenous Survivors, their families, and communities to promote hope and healing in Canada. The LHF encourages people to address discrimination and injustices in order to contribute to the equality, dignity, and respectful treatment of Indigenous Peoples and to foster Reconciliation.

The LHF has more than 28 educational exhibitions that promote awareness of Indigenous history that are free to borrow, and LHF is currently working on making these exhibitions available online. LHF also has curriculum for K-12 and for adults, along with Activity Guides, Workshops and Training, Podcasts, all designed to educate Canadians about Indigenous history and the shared history of Residential and Day Schools, the Sixties Scoop, and other acts of colonization. The LHF works to develop empathy and understanding so as to eliminate racism against Indigenous Peoples.