June is National Indigenous History Month — a time to reflect, learn and engage more deeply with Indigenous Peoples, cultures and ways of knowing.
At United Way of Calgary and Area (United Way), our Indigenous strategy, Akak’stiman (a Blackfoot word meaning the journey of creative planning to achieve goals), guides our commitment to reconciliation and meaningful relationship-building.
We’ve compiled a list of events and resources to help you engage meaningfully during National Indigenous History Month. The events and resources shared below are not just activities to attend, they are invitations to walk alongside community—to listen, to learn and most importantly, to make relatives.
We encourage everyone to use these resources to take intentional steps to understand and embody the Indigenous way of working — one rooted in respect, reciprocity and connection.
Educational & Informative Resources
- About National Indigenous History Month
- Learning resources about First Nations, Inuit and Métis across Canada
- HomeFront Calgary – Indigenous History Month Resources
- UBC Indigenous Film Guide
United Way Events
June 18 – “When Berries and Medicines are Ripe” – Book Club “The Knowing”
When Berries and Medicines are Ripe” Book Club: A discussion group focused on Indigenous literature, providing a platform for participants to explore and reflect on Indigenous stories and teachings.
June 24 – Connect 2025 – Truth & Reconciliation: 10 Years Later, Emerging Systems Options
United Way of Calgary and Area’s 15th annual Connect Event is an opportunity to learn, recognize and celebrate the strengths and contributions of the Indigenous community. This year’s event falls on the 10-year anniversary of the Truth & Reconciliation Commission’s report.
It features prominent Indigenous voices Niigaan Sinclair and Reg Crowshoe as keynote speakers, as well as a panel discussion with representatives from the sectors identified under the 94 Calls to Action.
Join to explore:
- The 10 years since the report—what’s happened during this time and what work still needs to be done
- Implementation stories on the 94 Calls to Action
- An introduction of the ‘systems options’ concept
Events in Calgary and Surrounding Area
June 1 – 30
Banff Centre’s National Indigenous History Month
The Banff Centre recognizes National Indigenous History Month as a time for learning, honouring, reflecting and engaging with Indigenous cultures. The Banff Centre invites the community to participate in events and activities including story sharing, dance, films and music.
Contemporary Calgary – “Hummingbird Guided Meditation”
A cinematic installation presented as a series of meditations on life from the perspective of a hummingbird, inviting contemplation and empathy. The exhibition runs from February 20 to November 2, offering visitors and extended opportunity to engage and reflect.
Alberta Health Services
The provincial planning committee for AHS’ National Indigenous Peoples’ Month (NIPM) invites everyone to participate in sessions exploring this year’s theme: Hand in Hand Towards Cultural Safety.
Where We Gather, the Land Speaks Exhibition
Where We Gather, The Land Speaks presents the work of three emerging Indigenous artists, Lucas Hale, Lori Scalplock and Elijah Wells. Through diverse materials such as beadwork, quills, sound and installation, the artists follow different paths across Treaty 7, exploring the Land’s role in shaping identity, culture, place and belonging. The exhibition will be on display through Augus
June 3 – TOUR – Indigenous Art in the Taylor Family Digital Library, University of Calgary,
Installed on each floor of the Taylor Family Digital Library, this free exhibition enhances awareness of the Indigenous peoples of Treaty 7, celebrating their creativity and resilience. Highlights include works by 2023 Governor Award winner, David Garneau, along with artists Alex Janvier, Adrian Stimson and Joane Cardinal-Schubert.
June 5 – Indigenous Artist in Residence: Exhibition Launch
Join Morgan Black, at Calgary Public Library, for the launch of their final exhibition. The exhibit features work created by the artist, alongside contributions from Library patrons throughout their residency and explores the concept of identity through interpretations on traditional Indigenous ceremony masks.
June 14 – 21 – The Aboriginal Awareness Week Calgary
The theme for 2025 “Keeping the Circle Strong through the Sacred Relationship with Mother Earth” reflects the pride that our First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities take in their rich heritage, traditions and cultures through being the caretakers of Mother Earth and water the giver of life. Everyone is invited to participate in the city-wide events.
June 21 – Authentically Indigenous Craft Show
Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day at Heritage Park with a full day of community-led programming, rooted in tradition and open to all. The highlight of the day is a vibrant Pow Wow — a powerful gathering that brings together dancers, drummers and community in celebration of culture, identity and connection. The event also features the 10th annual Campfire Chats, presented in collaboration with the University of Calgary.
June 22 – Authentically Indigenous Craft Show
Showcasing unique handmade goods by Indigenous artists from the Calgary and Treaty 7 region, this craft show celebrates culture, creativity and community. Hosted by Authentically Indigenous, the event provides a platform for local artists to share their work and stories while supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship.
Hand to Heart
As you explore these events and resources, we invite you to move beyond awareness and into action — to engage with openness, humility and heart. Making relatives is a lifelong journey rooted in respect and relationship. Let this month be a meaningful step forward in that journey.