Saskatoon, Sask. – June 17, 2026 – Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, National Indigenous Peoples Day honours the rich histories, cultures, traditions, and achievements of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples across the country.

Observed annually on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, National Indigenous Peoples Day symbolizes connection, renewal, and celebration.

An important part of recognizing National Indigenous Peoples Day is strengthening allyship. Education is a meaningful place to begin because it helps us understand our role in the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.

Earlier this year, UFCW Canada Resident Elder Eric Flett delivered a unique Indigenous awareness training session for UFCW activists. Participants explored the concept of Two-Eyed Seeing, the Seven Grandfather Teachings, and the ways these principles connect us to the land, to one another, and to the sacred elements.

“Taking this course was very meaningful for us,” says UFCW Local 1400 President Lucy Figueiredo. “Effective allyship means creating space for truth-telling and turning our desire to do more into meaningful action. We are proud to support justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people. As unions, much of our work is about keeping each other safe.”

To support ongoing learning and action, UFCW Canada collaborated with Elder Flett, the UFCW Canada Indigenous Committee, and Indigenous experts to develop the Indigenous Rights & Activism course. Designed to strengthen collective allyship and advocacy for Indigenous justice, the introductory course helps participants build a greater awareness of the key issues affecting Indigenous Peoples, both historically and today.

Available free of charge to all UFCW members and their families through the webCampus digital education platform, the Indigenous Rights & Activism course encourages continued learning, fosters a deeper understanding of Indigenous issues, and provides practical tools to support personal reconciliation journeys.

Learn more about the course: https://webcampusmenu.ufcw.ca/course/874/indigenous-rights--activism

For more information about UFCW Canada’s reconciliation initiatives, visit: https://www.ufcw.ca/reconciliation