June 19th, 2025

Written by Brook Doersam

Indigenous students in Grades 7 and 8 gathered centrally at the Education Centre for a hand drum making workshop. Organized and facilitated by Nicole Robinson, Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) Equity and Inclusion Officer – Indigenous focus, and Akiesha Absolon-Winchester and Amanda Thompson, two Indigenous Social Workers, this workshop provided students with an opportunity to explore cultural teachings related to hand drums, learn a few hand drum songs, and create their own drum to take home.

Days like this are more than just cultural events; they are vital identity affirming spaces where Indigenous youth can see themselves reflected, celebrated, and supported. These types of spaces offer a community where students can gain a sense of confidence and pride in their identity, which will help them as they navigate their educational journey. Bringing Indigenous students together in these ways plays a vital role in nurturing Indigenous pride in WRDSB schools and reflects our commitment to reconciliation and student well-being in a meaningful way.

Indigenous History Month

June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day.

The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) commemorates National Indigenous History Month throughout June, and recognizes National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. This important time calls on us to honour the histories, contributions, and lived realities of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples, and to reflect on how we situate ourselves on the traditional territories upon which we are privileged to live, learn, and work.

Learn more about how we are marking Indigenous History Month.