International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples

International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples

The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is observed to promote and protect the rights of indigenous populations around the world. The day recognizes the contributions and struggles of indigenous peoples, as well as their unique cultures, traditions, and languages.

In Canada, this day holds particular significance due to the country's colonial history and ongoing reconciliation efforts. Indigenous peoples in Canada have faced numerous injustices, including forced relocation, residential schools, and the loss of traditional lands and resources. The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples provides an opportunity to raise awareness of these issues and advocate for change.

In 1994, the United Nations General Assembly declared August 9th as the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples. Since then, the day has been commemorated with events and activities around the world. In Canada, organizations and communities hold cultural celebrations, workshops, and forums to raise awareness of indigenous issues and promote reconciliation. The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is observed annually on August 9th.

Facts about Indigenous People

• Indigenous languages are dying at an alarming rate. UNESCO warns that at least 43% of the estimated 6000 languages spoken in the world are endangered.
• Indigenous peoples often have lower life expectancies than the general population in their countries due to higher rates of diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and alcohol addiction, often stemming from stress, poor sanitation, malnutrition, lack of access to clean water and medical care.
• Despite their historical ties, Indigenous peoples have legal ownership of only about 10% of the world’s lands. Land rights are a major issue for indigenous peoples, as many of their difficulties are directly connected to their displacement from their ancestral lands.
• As of the 2021 census, Indigenous peoples in Canada totaled 1,807,250 people, or 5.0% of the national population.
• 7.7% of the Canadian population under the age of 14 are of Indigenous descent.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

• Donate to Survival International. All funds donated are put towards the survival and protection of indigenous peoples rights. They help to defend their lands and lives and help them determine their own future.
• Watch the official UN International Day of the Worlds Indigenous Peoples webcast. It is hosted in the ECOSOC Chamber at the UN headquarters and you can watch it online.
• Participate in guided tours or nature walks led by Indigenous guides, or visit Indigenous-owned eco-tourism initiatives to learn about sustainable land practices.
• Take the time to educate yourself about the history of the Indigenous peoples in Canada by visiting historical sites, participating in educational workshops, or attending talks by Indigenous scholars and activists.