June is a busy month for celebrating important and commemorative days in Canada.
A simple Internet search reveals just how many of these days there are, and while each one is observed in some fashion throughout Alberta, they also reflect the larger scope of Canadian multiculturalism.
Canadians come from a wide range of races, religions, and nations, all of which makes for a diverse population, and many opportunities to celebrate.
To begin, June is recognized as National Indigenous History Month, a time to recognize the long and rich history, heritage, resilience and diversity of Canada’s First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.
In terms of Airdrie, the city is situated on the lands of Treaty 7 territory, the traditional lands of the Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Stoney Nakoda, and Tsuut’ina peoples, and on the homelands of the Métis Nation, Region 3.
June 21 is also National Indigenous Peoples Day, a date chosen to reflect the spiritual importance of the summer solstice to Indigenous people across Canada.
June 24 is Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, celebrated in Quebec and by French Canadians across the country, including here in Alberta. The day’s celebrations often include parades, fireworks, feasting, and music concerts.
June 27 is Canadian Multiculturism Day, a time to celebrate our country’s cultural diversity and to reaffirm our commitment to equity, inclusion, and mutual respect.
Speaking of multiculturalism, June is also a time when Italian, Filipino, and Portuguese communities showcase the invaluable contributions they have made to the social, economic, and cultural fabric of Canada.
Finally, June 1 marked the launch of Pride Month, which features a wide range of events that take place from June to September. Locally, Airdrie is hosting a Solidarity Walk on June 18, which will be followed by the Airdrie Pride Society’s Pride in the Park event at Nose Creek Regional Park.
Here at Airdrie Public Library (APL), we’ll be participating in one way or another in these celebrations through our collections, programs, and events. Watch for book displays celebrating these various important and commemorative days and look for us at Pride in the Park on June 18.
For more information on APL programs and events, visit www.airdriepubliclibrary.ca
