Legal Aid Ontario (LAO) encourages everyone to celebrate National Aboriginal Day on June 21. Learn about local First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities and their unique heritage, cultures and contributions to Ontario cultures by participating in the many events hosted by towns and cities.

Canadians have celebrated National Aboriginal Day, part of National Aboriginal Awareness month, since it was proclaimed by former Governor-General Romeo LeBlanc in 1996. Aboriginal organizations and the federal government chose the summer solstice to celebrate First Nation, Métis and Inuit cultures because it is the longest day of the year.

This year, Canadians recognize the history and resilience of Aboriginal communities  with the release of the report on residential schools by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. The report’s 94 recommendations redress the tragic legacy of those schools and commits to changes that could make National Aboriginal Day more joyous through the years.

LAO is committed to recognizing the importance and uniqueness of First Nation, Métis and Inuit across Ontario. Through its Aboriginal Justice Strategy, the organization aims to achieve measurable improvements to legal aid services for Aboriginal peoples.

For more information please contact aboriginalstrategy@lao.on.ca.