June marks Indigenous History Month across Canada—a time to celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. At the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB), we are proud to continue our commitment to truth, respect, and reconciliation through meaningful learning and community engagement.
Land Acknowledgements: A Foundation of Respect
OCSB schools and offices are located on the traditional, unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinabeg. Students and staff reflect on Land Acknowledgements as catalysts for Deep Learning throughout the year, especially during Indigenous History Month. Through collaboration and inquiry, students and staff explore their individual roles and responsibilities in response to the 94 Calls to Action and UNDRIP. This learning culminates in students and staff writing personalized land acknowledgments that articulate their relationship with Algonquin people and with the land and state actions they will take to move toward Truth and Reconciliation.
Indigenous Education in Action
The Indigenous Education Advisory Committee (IEAC), comprised of Indigenous Elders, community members, educators, and families, guides us in embedding Indigenous teachings, languages, and perspectives into our schools. In 2025, OCSB will continue to offer culturally relevant programming and support Indigenous language learning opportunities, including summer language programs that nurture language revitalization. There is also a committee of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit representatives working with the Indigenous Education team, the Contemporary Studies consultant, the French consultant, and Grade 7, 8, and 10 educators to review and create program plans to support History educators across the system. This writing project will continue next year and expand into supporting Elementary school Social Studies programming.
Celebrating Indigenous History Month 2025
OCSB schools will host various events and activities this June, designed to deepen understanding and celebrate Indigenous cultures. Students and staff will participate in city-wide events such as the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival, joining the broader Ottawa community in recognition and celebration. Other school-based events happening in June include the Spirit Bear Family Picnic at St. Monica’s Elementary School in collaboration with Jordan’s Principal representatives, visits to Madahoki Farm, and explorations of local histories and waterways throughout the city in partnership with the Indigenous Education team using Etuaptmumk (also known as two-eyed seeing). Many First Nations, Metis, and Inuit community partners also continue to visit schools to share teachings.
Walking Together on the Path of Reconciliation
Our work is inspired by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Through education, relationship-building, and on-going dialogue, OCSB strives to create a learning environment where all students feel valued and empowered to learn about Indigenous histories and cultures with honesty and respect. On June 12, at St. Paul High School, school representatives will come together to share and celebrate this learning with community partners who support the learning.
Join Us!
We invite students, families, and community members to participate in Indigenous History Month activities and share their stories with the OCSB Indigenous Education team. Together, we can continue to build a future grounded in understanding and reconciliation.
Please visit the OCSB Indigenous Education webpage or contact the Indigenous Education team for more information.
