AMA statement on National Indigenous History Month

June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to celebrate and honour the living histories, cultures, languages, voices and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across Canada.

The Alberta Medical Association recognizes this month as an opportunity to reflect on and recommit to the recommendations contained in the AMA Policy Statement on Indigenous Health. We are proud to be home to the Section of Indigenous Health, the first in Canada, and are committed to working with the section and the Indigenous Health Committee to deepen our understanding of Indigenous health and continue our reconciliation journey.

This month is also the start of summer, and the beginning of ceremony season, when many Indigenous people gather on traditional lands for sacred cultural and seasonal celebrations. It is a time marked by prayer, learning, kinship and sharing, that invites generations to come together under the summer sun and reconnect with culture and community.

A connection to language, land, ceremony, family and community supports emotional, spiritual, mental and physical wellness. For many Indigenous Peoples, culture and celebration can help strengthen identity, belonging, resilience and healing. Strengthening Indigenous health must include supporting connections to culture and creating spaces where Indigenous ways of knowing, being and healing are respected and upheld.

National Indigenous History Month is an ideal time to learn about and celebrate Indigenous culture. The AMA encourages everyone to seek out some of the many events happening throughout the summer, particularly on National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. Explore these celebrations as a learner and supporter and discover how inspiring these ceremonies can be.

Here is a short listing of just some of the Indigenous celebrations happening around Alberta this summer. Travel Alberta also has an excellent guide to summer events.

Published: Jun 3, 2026