Today is the solstice, the day when the sun travels its longest path across the sky. It is the longest day of the year and the official start of summer. And for millennia, it has been acknowledged by Indigenous Peoples as a time of rejuvenation, renewal and growth.

It’s during this time that we celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, acknowledging the cultures, languages and traditions of those who have long lived on the land known as Canada.

Our shared history is rooted in a bad way. But just as the seasons bring change, we move forward and grow. Each cycle is an opportunity to learn, change and work towards reconciliation.

I am very proud of the work being done to advance reconciliation here in our union. We are currently restructuring the Learning Development 70 course, Unionism on Turtle Island, to ensure that it meets the needs of our members. We work to educate the membership through the efforts of the SGEU Indigenous Committee, and we continue to urge the Government of Saskatchewan to make The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation a statutory holiday.

I know that it has been a difficult couple of months for many of our members. My heart goes out to the communities that remain under evacuation orders and those who are dealing with the aftermath of these fires. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support.

To recognize National Indigenous Peoples Day this weekend, I encourage SGEU members to take concrete action to advance reconciliation in their own way. I recommend donating to the 2025 Saskatchewan Wildfires Appeal to assist our northern communities, attending one of the National Indigenous Peoples Day events listed below, and reading the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action.

As we celebrate the changing of the seasons, let’s acknowledge the past, take action in the present and look to the future with hope.

Hali Topinka (she/her)
SGEU Indigenous Vice-President

National Indigenous Peoples Day Events

• Buffalo Narrows
  • The SGEU Indigenous Committee will be participating in the Buffalo Narrows Indigenous Peoples Day celebration
• Saskatoon:
  • South Saskatchewan River Water Walk: A traditional walking ceremony. 
  • Saskatoon Indian Metis Friendship Centre Celebration: Offers a range of cultural activities and learning opportunities. 
  • National Indigenous Peoples Day Traditional Pow Wow: A celebration featuring traditional dancing, drumming, and singing. 
  • Wanuskewin Heritage Park: A traditional gathering place with guided tours, educational activities, and more. 
  • Reconciliation Walking Tour: An opportunity to learn about reconciliation efforts. 
• Prince Albert:
  • Kistapinanihk Indigenous Day Unity Parade: A parade celebrating Indigenous unity. 
• Regina:
  • Regina National Indigenous Peoples Day: A celebration featuring Indigenous performances, family-friendly activities, and more. 
  • Regina Transit: Free transit for attendees of the Victoria Park event. 
• Royal Saskatchewan Museum:
  • National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration: Includes a self-guided tour of the First Nations Gallery, drop-in activity stations, and more. 
• Moose Jaw:
  • A day of celebration featuring Indigenous teachings, storytelling, dancing, and drumming. 
• City of Fort Saskatchewan:
  • Legacy Park celebration honoring Indigenous culture and community. 
• University of Saskatchewan:
  • Opportunities to learn about Indigenization, decolonization, and Indigenous history through their website and I-Portal. 
• Saskatchewan Polytechnic:
  • Located on Treaty 4 and Treaty 6 Territories and the homeland of the Métis, with events and activities throughout the month. 
• SaskCulture: