June 21 is Indigenous Peoples Day

June is Indigenous History Month and June 21 is Indigenous Peoples Day; both are a time to honour and expand our knowledge about Indigenous Peoples, their experiences, and their stories. Embracing this day is a crucial step toward fostering Reconciliation.

CPSM has spent the past few years reflecting upon the historical mistreatment endured by Indigenous Peoples within the medical profession in Manitoba. This process has involved actively listening to Indigenous perspectives and contemplating the most effective ways to progress toward eradicating Indigenous-specific racism in medical practice against Indigenous Peoples. Here is what we have accomplished in the past year:

• Earlier this year, we issued an apology and statement to the First Nations and Inuit Peoples.
• We also developed a Land Acknowledgement that is meaningful and intentional to CPSM.
• We continue on our path to Reconciliation and acting on the seven recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Advisory Circle. Read more here.

We encourage you to set aside some time to learn more about the diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. In Indigenous cultures, knowledge is passed down through stories and voices and learning is accomplished by watching and listening.

Here are a few recommendations to get you started:

If you have 1 minute, we recommend watching Heritage Minute | Tom Longboat
This Heritage Minute follows the life of Onondaga long-distance runner Gagwe:gih, whose name means "Everything." Known around the world as Tom Longboat, he was one of the most celebrated athletes of the early 20th century.

If you have 5 minutes, we recommend reading Defining Two-Spirit

June is also Pride Month. If you are not already familiar with the term "Two-Spirit", learn more about the pre-colonial and contemporary usage of the term by Indigenous Peoples.

If you have 15 minutes, we recommend watching Evan's Drum

An adventurous young boy and his determined mother share a passion for Inuit drum dancing. Evan's Drum is a joyful visit to a family's loving home and an uplifting story of cultural pride.

If you have 30 minutes or more, we recommend viewing Powwow! Ohcîwin The Origins (virtual exhibit)

Powwows are Indigenous cultural celebrations where many forms of dance styles are performed as part of the ceremony. These social gatherings, held across North America, bring people together to sing, dance and share teachings all while celebrating Indigenous culture. Each dance style has a meaning or origin story and a specific purpose.

Find more resources here.

Do you have an Indigenous film, podcast, or book you recommend? Please share it with us at TheRegistar@cpsm.mb.ca