Featured Image: TKARONTO – CREWNECK available at aaniin retail inc.
During National Indigenous History Month, it’s important to dedicate time learning about the history of First Nations, Inuit and Métis, as well as become more knowledgeable about relevant contemporary issues. You can also invest in Indigenous-centred businesses and creators. Below are a few ways you can show your support locally.
Support Indigenous-owned Retail at aaniin retail inc.
Chelsee Pettit is an anishinaabe member of aamjiwnaang First Nations and the founder of aaniin retail inc. aaniin started out as a streetwear brand, and in June 2023, opened a retail store/POP UP at Stackt Market Toronto. All products sold in the shop are 100% Indigenous designed, made, or sourced from Indigenous-owned businesses, putting funds in the hands of Indigenous designers, creators, artists. The shop is located at Stackt Market, unit 5-105.
Access Educational Resources at Myseum
Myseum compiled a non-exhaustive list of resources including reports, courses, documentaries, books, podcasts, organizations, and articles about various topics surrounding Indigenous peoples, including both historic and contemporary issues.
Experience Indigenous Cuisine and Tradition at The CN Tower
Throughout the month of June the top of the hour show will be dedicated to National Indigenous History Month, and the CN Tower’s night lighting will feature the colours of the medicine wheel. Images from the logo of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation will be featured on the CN Tower’s Radome.
The 360 culinary team has partnered with Chef David Wolfman to offer a new menu that celebrates Indigenous cuisine and culinary traditions. Chef David Wolfman is an internationally recognized expert in traditional Aboriginal cuisine and wild game, and a member of the Xaxli’p First Nation in BC.
Support the Arts
Red Sky Performance is a leading company of contemporary Indigenous performance in Canada and worldwide. View upcoming events and performances, or make a contribution by donating or purchasing merchandise online.
The Indigenous Curatorial Collective is another great organization that supports Indigenous curators, artists, writers, academics, and professionals in the arts. Providing a donation goes directly towards the important work that they do.
Appreciate Cinema by Indigenous Creators at TIFF
In celebration of National Indigenous History Month, the TIFF Lightbox is presenting a series of events and screenings:
- June 14, 6:30pm – TIFF Wavelengths Presents Bedevil with introduction by TIFF Programmer Jason Ryle.
- June 15, 7pm – Sweet As – Co-presented with imagineNATIVE and Indigenous Screen Office.
- June 16, 11am – FREE – Silver Screenings – Sweet As – Sarah Lewis performance and talk Prior to the screening of Sweet As.
TIFF is also offering a digital program that showcases feature films by Indigenous creators around the world.
TIFF co-presenter imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival is the world’s largest presenter of Indigenous screen content. Look forward to the Festival, which will take place from October 17-29, 2023. In the meantime, show your support by donating.
Celebrate Music and Culture at Tkaronto Music Festival
Celebrate the best in Indigenous Entertainment and Culture at the Tkaronto Music Festival at Stackt Market, June 21-24.