Latest news with #Métis
Cision Canada
an hour ago
- Science
- Cision Canada
Canadian Coast Guard begins 2025 Arctic Summer Season
YELLOWKNIFE, NT, June 20, 2025 /CNW/ - The Canadian Coast Guard's annual Arctic summer operational season is underway. Through its new Arctic Strategy, the Canadian Coast Guard is working with Inuit, First Nation, and Métis partners to deliver services and programs in the North, by the North, for the North. In total, seven Canadian Coast Guard icebreakers are scheduled to deploy from June into November to enable the annual northern community resupply, search and rescue operations, marine pollution incidents, Canadian Arctic security, and other operational and program commitments. June 11 – CCGS Pierre Radisson departed Quebec City, QC, for icebreaking, Arctic science support, Marine Environmental and Hazards Response (MEHR) vessel reconnaissance and assessment, buoy tending operations, and refueling Killiniq's remote communication station. June 26 – CCGS Henry Larsen departs St. John's, NL, for icebreaking, Arctic science support, and Operation Pacer Goos e – to support the annual resupply of U.S. Pituffik Space Base in Greenland. June 27 – CCGS Amundsen departs Quebec City, QC, for the 2025 Amundsen Science mission. July 1 – CCGS Des Groseilliers departs Quebec City, QC, for icebreaking, Arctic science support, MEHR vessel reconnaissance and assessment, and refueling the weather station in Eureka, NU. July 9 – CCGS Jean Goodwill departs Dartmouth, NS, for icebreaking in Southern and Central Arctic, as well as the High Arctic, if required. July 17 – CCGS Sir Wilfrid Laurier departs Nome, Alaska (following its deployment in Operation North Pacific Guard), for icebreaking, Arctic science support, MEHR vessel reconnaissance and assessment, and buoy tending operations in the Western Arctic. September 18 – CCGS Louis S. St-Laurent departs Cambridge Bay, NU, to assist the Joint Ocean Ice Study in the Beaufort Sea, and provide icebreaking support in the High and Low Arctic. It will be the last vessel operating in the Arctic, until the end of November 2025. Through presence, assistance, and operations, the Canadian Coast Guard continues to demonstrate and reinforce Canada's long-standing, well-established sovereignty in the North. Quick Facts: The Canadian Coast Guard maintains safe and efficient marine navigation in Arctic waters by providing icebreaking services to the shipping industry and other vessel traffic, and daily ice and operations briefings in the North. Iqaluit's Marine Communications and Traffic Services centre reopened on May 16, 2025, and ensures safe navigation in the region by monitoring Arctic marine traffic, responding to maritime distress calls, broadcasting weather and ice information, and issuing navigational warnings. Across the Arctic, search and rescue training occurs with Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary units to gain extensive local knowledge of specific risks and enhance capacity for search and rescue in the Arctic. The seasonal Arctic Marine Response Station in Rankin Inlet, NU, will reopen on June 25, 2025, to provide local maritime search and rescue services during the summer season. The Arctic MEHR and Monitoring and Compliance teams maintain a permanent presence in the Arctic, with a network of 28 equipment caches, 24/7 standby response for marine pollution incidents in the North, and full-time facilities in Iqaluit, NU, and Yellowknife and Hay River, NT. On Great Slave Lake and the Mackenzie River in the Northwest Territories, the Canadian Coast Guard's two specialized buoy tenders, the CCGS Dumit and CCGS Eckaloo, conduct seasonal buoy tending to help commercial shipping and community resupply along the river, if water levels permit. SOURCE Canadian Coast Guard
Cision Canada
3 hours ago
- Politics
- Cision Canada
STATEMENT - Reflecting on the past and shaping a better future Français
OTTAWA, ON, /CNW/ - On the occasion of National Indigenous Peoples Day, marked on June 21, 2025, Charlotte-Anne Malischewski, Interim Chief Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission, issues the following statement: Tomorrow, on National Indigenous Peoples Day, we join people across the country in celebrating the distinct cultures, histories, and enduring achievements of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Since time immemorial, Indigenous communities have been the stewards of these lands and waters. Together, they have helped shape the culture, traditions and inherent values of what is now known as Canada. These are rich histories to celebrate. But there has been much to overcome. The legacy of colonialism — including the impacts of residential schools, the Indian Act, the separation of families, the unmarked graves of children, the displacement of communities — has led to generational trauma and bears heavily on the present. We must be mindful of these realities. Indigenous peoples in Canada continue to face systemic discrimination and the denial of their human rights. Among them: the right to self-determination, to safe drinking water, to safe housing, to the preservation of language, and to live free from violence and injustice. Working towards reconciliation means more must be done to ensure that all Indigenous peoples can live in full realization of their human rights. This is a collective responsibility. It belongs to all of us because this history belongs to all of us. Together, we must recognize intersecting identities and amplify the many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis voices by including women and girls, men, 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, Elders, youth, and people with disabilities. We must support distinctions-based, Indigenous-led solutions. And we must keep challenging colonial-based systems that continue to do harm. At the same time, we must remember to keep celebrating Indigenous contributions, which are among Canada's greatest strengths. They encompass artistry, leadership, learning, family, community, environmentalism, and all the other everyday contributions of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Let's ensure all forms of Indigenous excellence are celebrated and free to flourish. Stay Connected social media.
Cision Canada
7 hours ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
RBC deepens its commitment to advancing reconciliation and human rights with the launch of its inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan Français
The bank thanks 400+ First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, employees and business owners who shared their insights to help inform RBC's Reconciliation Action Plan and journey forward TORONTO, June 20, 2025 /CNW/ - Today, Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) published its Reconciliation Action Plan: Pathways to Economic Prosperity – a strategic framework outlining the bank's measurable, long-term commitment towards reconciliation and plans to address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action 92 1 for Corporate Canada. Building on RBC's longstanding history 2 of working with Indigenous communities across Canada, the plan prioritizes the organization's actions and investments across five key pathways – Economy, People, Community, Environment and Leadership – to help drive inclusive economic growth, create positive social change and advance reconciliation. "At RBC, we believe that long-term Indigenous prosperity is at the heart of a growing economy and thriving society for Canada," said Dave McKay, President & CEO, RBC. "Helping advance reconciliation efforts by collaborating with Indigenous peoples, unlocking more opportunities for Indigenous participation, and creating greater access to capital will be critical to boosting Canada's long-term competitiveness. Our bank is deeply committed to doing more and working with Indigenous communities across Canada to help deliver on this ambition." Building upon the foundational progress RBC has made over the last several decades, the bank re-imagined the mandate of its Indigenous Banking team and leadership to transform its approach to Indigenous collaboration. Last year, RBC appointed Chinyere Eni, a commercial banking executive, a member of Little Pine First Nation (Cree) and a second-generation Nigerian (Igbo) to help shape RBC's Indigenous strategy for the future. In May 2024, RBC Origins was launched, along with a new Truth and Reconciliation Office led by Brittanee Laverdure, a member of Liard First Nation (Kaska Dena). The team grew with net new leadership mandates covering Transaction Advisory Services, Human Rights, Regional Banking, Strategy and Portfolio Initiatives. Today, these mandates are led by team members who bring decades of collective experience working directly with Indigenous communities. In collaboration with Phil Fontaine, Special Advisor to RBC and former three-term National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, RBC Origins aims to bring to life one of the guiding principles of RBC's Purpose Framework – Ideas for People and Planet™ of advancing human rights and reconciliation. The bank is committed to doing so by strengthening the intersection of its work holistically across RBC's Indigenous banking, sustainability, and human rights strategies. RBC has also evolved its strategy and community engagement model to build trust-based relationships and amplify Indigenous voices to help steward the next chapter of the bank's reconciliation journey. Chinyere Eni, Head, RBC Origins notes: "Many of the 1.8 million Indigenous Peoples in Canada 3 continue to live at the periphery of economic well-being. Creating meaningful change that will last for generations requires a focus on scalable systemic approaches to Nation-to-Nation building, enhancing Indigenous access to capital, fostering financial and community well-being, and creating opportunities to empower the next generation of Indigenous talent, entrepreneurship, sustainable development and innovation." The reconciliation journey requires deliberate and sustained efforts toward responsible and respectful practices. As such, RBC's Reconciliation Action Plan serves as the foundation for effective implementation, continuous measurement and monitoring, and transparency. "Developing this plan has been a meaningful journey unto itself. There's been a tremendous mobilization of leadership, talent and engagement within RBC and the process has served as an important catalyst to transform the way the bank intends to engage with Indigenous communities going forward," Fontaine adds. To help ensure that an effective methodology was in place to generate candid feedback, RBC Origins collaborated with lead agency, BOOM InterTribal, an Indigenous-owned and -led strategic and creative partner. BOOM engaged Archipel Research & Consulting to solicit insights and ideas from more than 400 Inuit, First Nations and Métis communities, employees and business owners across Canada. These insights helped inform the bank's strategic priorities and investments across five pathways: Economy: To contribute to the prosperity of Inuit, First Nations, and Métis communities through tailored advice, programs and financial solutions aligning to The RBC ® Inclusive Opportunities Blueprint. People: To be an employer of choice for Métis, First Nations and Inuit talent and to foster a supportive environment across Canada to help shape the future of RBC. Community: To promote the well-being and economic growth of Inuit, Métis and First Nations communities by supporting the areas of greatest needs impacting Indigenous communities. Environment: To advance environmental stewardship efforts and sustainable practices aligned with the RBC ® Climate Blueprint. Leadership: To advance reconciliation through greater leadership, governance, transparency and accountability across RBC's Canadian operations. Launching on the eve of National Indigenous Peoples Day and the summer solstice, the Reconciliation Action Plan is guided by the theme of 'Celestial Cycles'–a creative concept by BOOM InterTribal to reflect the cycles long used by Indigenous Peoples to navigate movement and decision-making. The concept mirrors RBC's own journey of reflection, continuous learning and evolution, guided by its Purpose. Emily Kewageshig, an Anishinaabe artist and storyteller from Saugeen First Nation No. 29 visually brought this to life in a way that honours the past while inspiring the future throughout the report. RBC's Reconciliation Action Plan will be reviewed in 2027 to evaluate the bank's progress, with subsequent biennial updates. RBC looks forward to continued progress and anticipates announcing an update later this summer related to the Economy pathway of its Reconciliation Action Plan. To learn more about RBC Origins and RBC's Reconciliation Action Plan, visit Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the "safe harbour" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and any applicable Canadian securities legislation, with respect to RBC's Reconciliation Action Plan. For cautionary statements relating to the information in this press release, refer to the "Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" section in RBC's Reconciliation Action Plan. About RBC Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 97,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada's biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our more than 19 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at ® Registered Trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. For media inquiries, contact: Lara Banlaoi, RBC Corporate Communications
CBC
8 hours ago
- Entertainment
- CBC
Here's where Manitobans can celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day
Social Sharing There are a range of events happening on and ahead of this weekend welcoming Manitobans to celebrate the cultural traditions, heritage and stories of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people, as part of National Indigenous Peoples Day, observed every June 21. Most programming happens on Saturday — from a rooftop musical exhibition at the Winnipeg Art Gallery in Winnipeg to a slate of activities at Brandon's Riverbank Discovery Centre, a street festival in The Pas and much more. Several events in Winnipeg kick things off a day early on Friday, including a sacred fire and pipe ceremony at the University of Manitoba's Mashkiki Gitigaan Medicine Garden at 9 a.m. (or Joe Doupe Concourse in the event of rain). That's followed by a feast at the Brodie Atrium at 11 a.m. on campus, where visitors can take in a variety of vendors, as well as a ceremony recognizing the Indigenous campus community in the afternoon. Also on Friday is a National Indigenous Peoples Day market put on by Shared Health, which co-ordinates health-care delivery in the province. The market is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the William Avenue Mall at the Health Sciences Centre. Circles for Reconciliation is hosting a free barbecue, children's games, a market, a talking circle and entertainment from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Friday at Sergeant Tommy Prince Place (90 Sinclair St.). On Saturday, The Forks launches " Many Nations, One Heartbeat," which includes 11 days of free, family-friendly cultural and community programming that wraps on Canada Day, July 1. The WAG-Qaumajuq rooftop event runs from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and includes artists from the Prairies showcasing collaborative hip hop and R&B music. It marks the end of the gallery's Threads of Kin and Belonging: A Trinnipeg Live Mixtape Project, an exhibit celebrating Indigenous and Black voices that kicked off during Black History Month. The Saint-Joseph Métis National Union of Manitoba and Festival du Voyageur host the annual Métis picnic at Fort Gibraltar from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Winnipeg Goldeyes fans will be treated to live entertainment celebrating Indigenous culture before and during the game Saturday at Blue Cross Park. About 400 people displaced from ongoing wildfires will get free admission and food vouchers, thanks to a Manitoba Blue Cross donation, the team says. Waterways, an Indigenous-led non-profit, is taking members of the public out on the water for a free paddle from the St. Vital boat launch to the Manitoba Canoe and Kayak Club. It ends with a barbecue at the club, a plant walk and music. Spots are limited and registration is required. WATCH | National Indigenous Peoples Day in Manitoba (2023): National Indigenous Peoples Day in Manitoba 2 years ago Duration 1:59 Today is National Indigenous Peoples Day and Manitobans are encouraged to celebrate, learn more about Indigenous culture and reflect on history. Manitoba is home to the Cree, Ojibway, Oji-Cree, Dakota and Dene, Métis and Inuit. Lots of public events are going on today across Manitoba, including a powwow and musical performances at The Forks. Beyond Winnipeg, people in southwestern Manitoba can catch a full day of events at the Riverbank Discovery Centre in Brandon on Saturday, beginning at 10 a.m., including a powwow demo, a puppet show, a talent show, live musical performances and a range of other activities for all ages. Waywayseecappo First Nation, northwest of Brandon, is hosting a powwow at 1 p.m. In the Interlake region, the Manitoba Métis Federation's Selkirk chapter is hosting events in Selkirk Park, also starting with a pancake breakfast. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. there will be food, a Red River Métis market, a family tent and live entertainment. Gimli is hosting an afternoon of programming from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Gimli Park Pavilion, with free bannock and refreshments. In northern Manitoba, Thompson has an early morning (4:45 a.m.) pipe ceremony Saturday followed by a pancake breakfast, hot dog lunch, teepee teachings, karaoke — and an air band competition with cash prices for the top three finishers. The Pas Friendship Centre is holding a street festival starting at noon with traditional dancing and drumming, Métis fiddlers, local performers and youth activities.
Hamilton Spectator
8 hours ago
- Politics
- Hamilton Spectator
What is National Indigenous Peoples Day and is it a stat holiday?
Saturday, June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. It's a date to recognize and celebrate the history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. For generations, many Indigenous groups and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or around June 21, according to the Canadian government's description of the day , as this time of year is significant due to the summer solstice being the longest day of the year. In 1982, the National Indian Brotherhood, now the Assembly of First Nations, called for the creation of National Aboriginal Solidarity Day. In 1995, the Sacred Assembly called for a national holiday to celebrate the contributions of Indigenous peoples. June 21 was proclaimed as National Aboriginal Day in 1996 by then-Gov.-Gen. Roméo LeBlanc. In 2017, then-prime minister Justin Trudeau announced the federal government's intention to rename the day as National Indigenous Peoples Day. The government has been referring to it as such since. The day is now part of the Celebrate Canada program, which includes various cultural summer programs across the country. You can learn more about National Indigenous Peoples Day and look up a list of events across Canada on the government's website . National Indigenous Peoples Day is observed as a statutory holiday in the Northwest Territories and Yukon, but not anywhere else in Canada.
