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The Talking Stick

June 2026

The Talking StickJune 2026
askîhk kiskinohamâtowin opâskahopîsim - Egg Hatching Moon - June
opâskâwêhowipîsim-June

Around the Division Around the Division

Tansi / Taanishi / Hello Everyone

Welcome to June! In the Cree calendar, we've entered askîhk kiskinohamâtowin opâskahopîsim, the Egg Hatching Moon. This moon cycle represents a time of bursting forth, new life and preparing for the next stage of the journey—a beautiful reflection of our students as they prepare to wrap up their school year and step into the summer.


June is also National Indigenous History Month, a dedicated time to honour the rich histories, resilience and diverse cultures of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. The month culminates with National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21.


Because June 21 falls on a Sunday this year, Elk Island Public Schools will officially recognize and celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on Friday, June 19. However, we know this is a busy season filled with final exams and Provincial Achievement Tests (PATs). To accommodate these important academic schedules, schools have the flexibility to plan their own unique celebrations and learning events on either Friday, June 19 or Monday, June 22.


We encourage you to watch for information from your local schools regarding how they'll be celebrating this month, and we wish all students the very best as they finish their exams!

Upcoming Professional Learning Upcoming Professional Learning

Intentional Planning for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR)

June 4, 2026 - Intentional Planning for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR)

As the end of the year approaches, join us in looking ahead to create and implement a clear, meaningful vision for how your division, school or classroom can honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation—on September 30—through a Métis-specific lens. Together, we'll move beyond symbolic gestures to identify authentic resources and explore effective methods for embedding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action into daily practice. This session will support educators in deepening understanding of the Residential School System’s enduring impacts while highlighting Métis stories and perspectives.

Student Supports Student Supports

  • Métis Wellness Program
    Call: 1-877-729-0261


  • (Indigenous) Hope For Wellness Helpline
    Call: 1-855-242-3310


  • University of Alberta Support for Indigenous Students https://www.ualberta.ca/en/admissions/how-to-apply/indigenous-students/index.html

Community Connections Community Connections

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National Indigenous History Month in Strathcona County

Throughout June, Strathcona County is hosting a variety of community events and activities to celebrate and learn about the rich histories, traditions and resilience of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Working together and participating in these events is a wonderful way to support ongoing Truth and Reconciliation.

View the County's community events calendar and see what's happening near you

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Inuvialuit Day Celebration (Edmonton)

Join the community in Edmonton on June 7, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., to celebrate Inuvialuit Day and commemorate the signing of the Inuvialuit Final Agreement! Gather with friends, family and community members for a joyous day of cultural celebration, traditional foods (like muktuk and bannock), arctic sports demonstrations and connection.

Check out the full event details and location updates

Elder-in-Residence, Hand Drumming Circle

June 8, 2026 - Join Elder Terry (Coyote) Aleck and Christine Turenne (White Wolf Woman) for an Indigenous hand drumming circle at the Edmonton Public Library, Stanley A. Milner, downtown, on June 8 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Everyone is welcome and no experience or registration is necessary. Bring your own hand drum or use one of the extras provided!

Full details


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8th Annual Alberta Métis Fest

June 12–13 at the Cultural Gathering Centre, Métis Crossing (Smoky Lake, AB). Join the Otipemisiwak Métis Government for a free, two-day, family-friendly celebration of Métis culture! Friday evening features a fish fry dinner, bingo and a Métis Jamboree. Saturday is packed with activities including live mainstage performances, a Battle of the Bands, the popular Red River Jigging competition, an artisan vendor market, traditional cultural teachings and plenty of youth activities. Everyone is welcome to attend!

View the full schedule and event details

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Indigenous Craft Market

On June 20, head over to the Terwillegar Community Recreation Centre for an Indigenous Craft Market! This is a great opportunity to support local Indigenous artisans and makers while browsing a variety of unique, handcrafted goods, beadwork and artwork.

Full event details and hours

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Edmonton National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations (30th Anniversary)

Sunday, June 21, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., at Re/Max Field in Edmonton. Join this free community event featuring Indigenous traditions, music, dance, stories and special Edmonton Oilers guests honouring Indigenous hockey players.

Check out all the details and get your tickets

First Nation, Métis and Inuit Education
ᐊᒥᐢᑲᐧᒋᕀ. Treaty 6 Territory, Métis Homeland
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