Events for National Indigenous History Month

Peterborough, ON – The City of Peterborough encourages residents to listen, learn and celebrate the histories, contributions and cultures of Indigenous Peoples throughout National Indigenous History Month, which takes place in June.  

“This is a time to honour and celebrate the rich cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Turtle Island. Here in Peterborough, we are fortunate to be part of a region with deep Indigenous roots and living cultures that continue to shape our community. I encourage all residents to take time this month to learn, listen, and participate in events that celebrate Indigenous history, resilience, and knowledge,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. 

Several events are taking place across the City this month to heighten awareness of Indigenous cultures and history. Events include education workshops focusing on the Residential school system, an anti-racism workshop, children’s events, hand and drumming workshops and a sunrise ceremony commemorating Indigenous Peoples Day.  

“National Indigenous History Month is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the truths of our shared history and to deepen our understanding of the experiences and perspectives of Indigenous Peoples. Learning about Indigenous histories and contemporary issues isn’t just important, it’s essential to reconciliation and to building respectful, meaningful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. It’s through awareness, respect, and open dialogue that we move forward together in a good way,” said Shelley Knott, Advisor, Indigenous Relations with the City. 

A full list of events and workshops can be found below and online at peterborough.ca/NIHM. All events are free to attend.  

National Indigenous Peoples Day: June 21, 2025 

Strawberry Ceremony 
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. 
Location: Millennium Park (Gathering Place at King Street and Water Street) 

Begin the day with a traditional ceremony in a space of peace and reflection. Participants are encouraged to bring their hand drums and rattles/shakers. 

Children’s Activities 
Time: 10 a.m. to noon 
Location: Peterborough Public Library Main Branch, 345 Aylmer St. N. 

Enjoy hands-on, educational activities led by the Indigenous Advisor and Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child & Family Services. 
 
Hand Drumming and Song 
Time: 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. 
Location: Miskin Law Community Complex, 271 Lansdowne St. W. 

Experience the heartbeat and stories of traditional hand drumming in a gathering of community and culture.

Cardboard Creations with Vanessa Dion Fletcher 
Time: 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. 
Location: Miskin Law Community Complex, 271 Lansdowne St. W. 

Join Lunaapeew and Potawatomi neurodiverse artist Vanessa Dion Fletcher for a hands-on sculpture workshop inspired by her public artwork Resonant Harmony, newly installed at Miskin Law. Please note that spaces are limited for this event, and pre-registration is required. To register visit peterborough.ca/NIHM. 

Other events taking place this month:  

Cultural Competency Workshop: Residential Schools 

Date: Wednesday, June 18, 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. 
Location: Peterborough Public Library, 345 Aylmer St. N. 

This is an in-depth Cultural Competency session focused on the history and lasting impacts of Residential Schools in Canada. This session includes a screening of the powerful documentary We Were Children. Please note this film contains mature content and may be emotionally triggering. Viewer discretion is strongly advised.  

Please note that this workshop is only open to adults. 

Instagram Live Session  

When: Friday, June 20 at 10 a.m.  

To mark National Indigenous Peoples Day, the City of Peterborough will host an Instagram Live conversation between the City’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisor Reem Ali, and the City’s Advisor for Indigenous Relations Shelley Knott and Accessibility Compliance Specialist Mark Buffone on Friday, June 20, 2025 at 10 a.m.  

The discussion will be hosted on City of Peterborough’s Instagram account @cityptbo. Anyone who is interested in tuning into the discussion is welcome. A recording of the conversation will be available on the City’s Instagram account following the live event. 

Walk a Mile in My Moccasins Workshop  

Date: Monday, June 23, 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. 
Location: Peterborough Public Library, 345 Aylmer St. N. 

This interactive workshop engages participants in group activities exploring the historical and intergenerational trauma experienced by Indigenous Peoples. Topics include racism, discrimination, stereotypes, and healing through culture. 

Please note that this workshop is only open to adults.  

More information on National Indigenous History Month can be found at peterborough.ca/NIHM.