National Indigenous Peoples Day

national indigenous peoples day 2024

Science North and Dynamic Earth are situated on the traditional and ancestral lands of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and Wahnapitae First Nation in Robinson-Huron Treaty territory. We give thanks to the Indigenous Peoples who have cared for this land since time immemorial and pay respect to their traditions, ways of knowing, and acknowledge their many contributions to innovations in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, past and present. We also recognize the Métis Nation of Ontario for their historic and ongoing contributions. We commit to deepening engagement, relationships, and partnerships in order to advance truth and reconciliation, honour and reflect Indigenous ways of knowing, grow economic opportunities, and collaborate with Indigenous peoples as partners in order to inspire people of all ages to be engaged with science in the world around them.

June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day, and though it is only a single day in the calendar year that celebrates and recognizes the cultures and contributions of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Indigenous Peoples of Canada, it is year-round that those in and alongside our communities are regaining their culture, language and celebrating being Indigenous. Science North recognizes this day with gratitude and celebrates Indigenous ways of knowing and voices every day. We are happy to be celebrating this day and continuing our learning journey, both personally and professionally.

Science North and Dynamic Earth are pleased to offer free general admission to Indigenous Peoples. This admission policy is a way to show our commitment to deepening engagement, relationships, and partnerships in order to advance truth and reconciliation, honour, and reflect Indigenous ways of knowing to collaborate with Indigenous Peoples as partners, in order to inspire all people to be engaged with science in the world around them.

INDIGENOUS VENDORS

Mona's Designs will be set up in the lobby from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Come on by and browse and purchase Indigenous made goods!

KNOWLEDGE SHARING ACTIVITIES

Science North’s Outreach team and Indigenous Initiatives Steering Committee members will be providing hands-on activities for visitors.

PLANETARIUM

There will be a free public Planetarium showing of Under the Same Stars: Minwaadiziwin at 3:15pm. Limited seating available.
The First People were scientists and innovators, carefully tracking and moving with the seasons and creating inventions that allowed them to survive in the northern forests of our country. With this close connection to the natural world, the Indigenous People of Canada developed a strong culture, rooted in respect for the environment. Under the Same Stars: Minwaadiziwin aims to give visitors a chance to learn about the Indigenous worldview and sit at the fire with two people who are connected to the traditional ways. Visitors will leave the planetarium with an understanding of common constellations visible in the night sky and the Anishinaabe stories that define them. Minwaadiziwin is an Ojibwe term which refers to the hope for all living things to lead a good life. As we are all on this planet together and sit under the same stars, we hope for a good life for all.