June is National Indigenous History Month, Pride, and Seniors Month
June is a month full of celebrations, reflections, examinations and new learning.
This month, we celebrate the rich heritage, diversity and history of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across the land now known as Canada.
June is also Pride month. In June of 1969, police raids began at the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City. In response, the community fought back via demonstrations and resistance. The events transformed the gay liberation movement and paved the way for Pride around the world today. In the GTA, the annual Pride event takes place across the city with the main event culminating with a weekend of music, joy and celebration of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and communities.
In Ontario, June is also Seniors Month, celebrated provincially. It is a time to honour and recognize the contributions of our community elders. The 2022 theme is Stay Active, Connected, and Safe.
The YMCA of Greater Toronto will be acknowledging this June with a variety learning opportunities as we listen, learn, and celebrate!
| Event | Date | Event Description | Registration Link |
| Story Time with Dallas Hunt, Author of "Awâsis and the World-famous Bannock" | Wednesday, June 15 7 pm–7:30 pm | Join the YMCA of Greater Toronto on June 15 for a bedtime story with Dallas Hunt! Get comfy in your PJs as we listen to a reading of Awâsis and the World-Famous Bannock. This story highlights the importance of collaboration and seeking guidance from one's community, while introducing the Cree words for different animals and baking ingredients. This event is part of our National Indigenous History Month programming. | Register here |
| Story Time with Drag Stars Fay & Fluffy! | Wednesday, June 22 7 pm–8 pm | This special event will focus on books, songs and laughs, showing that reading is FUN-damental! We will explore stories about getting creative, using our imagination and understanding others who are different. Everyone is welcome! | Register here |
| Moontime Sisters: Period Equity | Tuesday, June 28 10 am–11:30 am | Join us as we discuss period equity and learn how to promote the power and solidarity of those living in northern Indigenous communities, with Moon Time Sisters. Moon Time Sisters (Ontario) is a volunteer-led organization that partners with 30+ northern Indigenous communities to supply people who menstruate with free period products. They work with high schools, health care centres, food banks, women’s shelters, midwifery organizations, and community programs to ensure these products are accessible to the community. If you require accommodation(s) in order to participate due to disability, please email accessibilty@ymcagta.org to make appropriate arrangements. | Register here |
