January – Spirit Moon (UFCW Indigenous Calendar 2026)

Toronto – January 7, 2026 – January marks a time of quiet reflection, spiritual grounding, and renewal in the Carrying Forward: 2026 UFCW Canada Indigenous Committee Calendar. Rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing, the calendar honours lunar teachings, cultural practices, and significant dates that follow natural cycles rather than the conventional Gregorian calendar. Developed in collaboration with the UFCW Canada Indigenous Committee and Indigenous partners, the calendar centres Indigenous voices, knowledge, and lived experience.

The first moon of the year is Spirit Moon, known in Anishinaabe as Mnido Giizis. As the first moon of Creation, Spirit Moon is often associated with the Northern Lights and invites a period of stillness and introspection. This is a time to embrace silence, listen deeply, and reflect. Spirit Moon encourages us to slow down, reconnect with spirit, and carry intentions forward as the year begins.

January’s teachings remind us that reflection is not passive, but purposeful — offering guidance as we move into the months ahead with awareness, humility, and respect for all relations.

Key Dates in January:

January 4: Ribbon Skirt Day

Ribbon Skirt Day honours the cultural significance of ribbon skirts as powerful expressions of Indigenous identity, resilience, and pride. Worn during ceremonies, celebrations, and everyday life, ribbon skirts represent teachings passed through generations and the strength of Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people.

Ribbon Skirt Day also affirms the right of Indigenous Peoples to wear and celebrate their culture freely and proudly. It encourages reflection on the importance of protecting cultural expression, supporting Indigenous youth, and recognizing the role of tradition in healing, resistance, and continuity.

The Grandmother Moon Teachings shared here are drawn from Kinoomaadiewinan Anishinabek Bimaadinzinwin, Book Two by Arlene Berry. It is important to recognize that teachings vary across Indigenous nations and territories throughout Turtle Island.

To explore more teachings, artwork, and significant dates, download the Carrying Forward: 2026 UFCW Canada Indigenous Committee Calendar today.