“June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. The Canadian Constitution recognizes these three groups as Aboriginal peoples, also known as Indigenous peoples.

Although these groups share many similarities, they each have their own distinct heritage, language, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs.

In cooperation with Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada chose June 21, the summer solstice, for National Aboriginal Day, now known as National Indigenous Peoples Day. For generations, many Indigenous peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year.” (from the Government of Canada website)

A day later, we are celebrating our Indigenous People’s music on the playlist.  Officially yesterday, may have been National Indigenous Peoples Day but we can still listen. Listening is what many of us need to do more of and lots of the tracks on the playlist have lyrics we should pay attention to.

There are many stories and truths being spoken and if we open our hearts and minds, we might just hear them and start to understand. Music has always been a great way to build bridges and bring people together. There are stories that I have heard but didn’t really get and now I am hearing stories about things I had no idea about. I am listening now and some times shocked at what has gone on and stuff that is still a part of people’s daily existence. I feel like there are many of us out there that are ready to hear each other and work toward building those bridges. Let the music help us.

Recently I was involved in organizing a music event on the theme of Building Bridges: Paths to Reconciliation. Dale Mac was one of our musicians that shared his music and his stories with us. He also was involved in our planning and had some great insight to share with us. I wanted to share his music with you. I didn’t find him on Spotify so check out a track on YouTube. Dale and his band were playing in Banff for National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration there. Yay Dale!

 

 

 

There may have been a couple American artists that made it on the playlist. I discovered a couple but there may be more. Oh well, we like some Americans right?