The North West Company Inc. (North West) takes this time to honour and commemorate Indigenous cultures, in line with this year’s National Indigenous Peoples Day and Indigenous Peoples Month.

In 1996, the Government of Canada officially designated June as Indigenous Peoples Month - with June 21 marking Indigenous Peoples Day. It was decided that this day be set aside as a time to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and oustanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. The decision was made as a direct response to the advocacy of Indigenous peoples voiced through organizations, assemblies and reports such as the Assembly of First Nations, the Sacred Assembly and the Royal Commission on Aborignal Peoples.

June 21 - the summer solstice - was selected specifically for its symbolisms to Indigenous cultures, as it has been a day set aside by Indigenous Peoples for generations as a day to celebrate their heritage and identity.

North West remains an active supporter of preserving and sharing the cultural identities of the Indigenous communities we serve. This year marks the 25th anniversary of celebrating the heritage, diverse cultures and remarkable achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. On this special occasion, North West takes time to reflect on and thank Indigenous peoples for sharing the richness of their culture, knowledge, values and stories.

Once again, we join the celebrations on National Indigenous Peoples Day by showing our support for virtual events such as APTN's Indigenous Day Live and Honouring the Gifts: MKO Youth Cultural Celebration. In addition, Northern and NorthMart are happy to support and be part of the celebrations planned in the communities where we serve.

To learn more about the virtual events, please visit the websites for APTN Indigenous Day Live and Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc.