National Indigenous Peoples Day
Starting this year, the Saskatchewan Library Association will be offering grants for libraries to put on National Indigenous Peoples Day programs on June 21, 2024 or during the week of June 16–22, 2024. These ten $200.00 grants are available to SLA’s individual or institutional members to support them as they celebrate and promote National Indigenous Peoples Day in their communities.
SLA gratefully acknowledges funding support for these grants by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Government Relations; Indigenous and Northern Relations, First Nation and Métis Relations Unit.
Applications will be assessed on how well the program aligns with the National Indigenous Peoples Day theme of recognizing and celebrating the history, heritage and diversity of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples in Saskatchewan. Funding will be awarded based on how closely the proposed program meets grant criteria, the number of requests received, and consideration for providing support across the province.
Grant applications must demonstrate a commitment to:
- Indigenous programming, reflecting First Nations, Métis and/or Inuit cultures
- Inclusivity of ability, gender, income, and cultural backgrounds
- Activities promoting cultural understanding, respect, community pride and social connections, and supporting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action
- Literacy and learning
- Meeting the needs of their community
Applications for the 2024 National Indigenous Peoples Day program grants are now closed.
All recipients of an SLA National Indigenous Peoples Day program grant will be required to submit a final grant report, including required receipts, by July 31, 2024. SLA will reimburse grant recipients for exact costs up to $200 by cheque after the final grant report has been received.
Background
For generations, many Indigenous groups and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or around June 21 because of the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year. National Indigenous Peoples Day reflects, recognizes and celebrates the diversity of First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities both in Saskatchewan and across the country.
National Indigenous Peoples Day, formerly known as National Aboriginal Day, was established in 1996 by then-Governor General of Canada Roméo LeBlanc through the federal Proclamation Declaring June 21 of Each Year as National Aboriginal Day. For more information, please visit the National Indigenous Peoples Day page on the Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada website.