Every June 24th, people around the world come together to celebrate the National Day of Indigenous Peoples. This day serves as a reminder to recognize and honor the unique culture, traditions, and contributions of indigenous peoples. For many years, indigenous communities have faced discrimination, human rights violations, and loss of land and resources. The National Day of Indigenous Peoples aims to bring awareness to these issues and support the preservation of indigenous cultures and ways of life. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the National Day of Indigenous Peoples, which was first established in 1995 by the United Nations General Assembly. The theme for this year’s celebrations is ‘Protecting our Indigenous language’. According to the United Nations, 40% of the world’s estimated 6,700 languages are in danger of disappearing. Indigenous languages are not only a means of communication, but they also hold significant cultural and historical value. Thus, it is crucial to protect and preserve these languages for future generations. Indigenous peoples are the keepers of traditional knowledge and practices that have sustained their communities for centuries. Their deep connection to the land and environment is essential for sustainable development. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was adopted in 2007 and serves as the framework for promoting and protecting the rights of indigenous peoples. Despite this declaration, indigenous communities still face challenges and violations of their rights. The National Day of Indigenous Peoples is a call to action for governments and society to work together towards reconciliation and empowerment of indigenous communities. Many events and activities are organized around the world to celebrate the National Day of Indigenous Peoples. These include cultural performances, art exhibitions, and workshops that showcase the rich diversity and traditions of indigenous cultures. In many countries, including Canada and Australia, the National Day of Indigenous Peoples is a public holiday, allowing people to take part in the festivities and learn more about indigenous histories and struggles. Hashtags such as and are used on social media platforms to raise awareness and share personal stories and experiences. Apart from celebrating this day, it is also important to take action and support indigenous communities. This can be done by educating ourselves on their histories, supporting indigenous-run businesses and initiatives, and amplifying their voices and rights. The journey towards reconciliation and the empowerment of indigenous peoples is a continuous effort. The National Day of Indigenous Peoples serves as a reminder to not only celebrate but also to reflect and take action. Let us come together to honor and support the resilience, strength, and diversity of indigenous peoples. 
Celebrating the National Day of Indigenous Peoples – June 24
