Toronto – May 30, 2025 – As we step into the month of June, we are guided by the Strawberry Moon (Ode’miin Giizis), a sacred time in the Anishinaabe calendar that symbolizes reconciliation, forgiveness, and community healing. Known as the “heart berry,” the strawberry represents love and the importance of emotional honesty. In Indigenous teachings, the Strawberry Moon invites us to come together in unity, to share in community feasts, and to let go of anger and judgment. It is a time to heal relationships—with each other, with the land, and within ourselves.
The sixth moon of Creation is the Strawberry Moon. During this moon, strawberries ripen in the wild, reminding us of nature’s sweetness and the power of renewal. It is a season of abundance and connection, where the fruits of the earth nourish both body and spirit. As families and communities gather in celebration, they reflect on the strength of their bonds and the teachings passed down through generations.
This June, we also honour National Indigenous History Month, a time to celebrate the diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Turtle Island. June is a time of visibility and pride—a month that recognizes the deep-rooted strength, resilience, and brilliance of Indigenous communities throughout history and into the future.
Key Dates in June:
June – National Indigenous History Month
National Indigenous History Month celebrates the diverse histories and ongoing contributions of Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is a time to uplift Indigenous voices, recognize cultural richness, and commit to truth, education, and reconciliation. Throughout the month, events and teachings highlight the vitality and resilience of Indigenous nations.
June 3 – Anniversary of the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
This solemn anniversary marks the release of the final report from the National Inquiry, which outlined the systemic causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people. It is a time to revisit the Calls for Justice, reaffirm commitments to action, and support the healing of families and communities.
June 21 – National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day of celebration across the country. Coinciding with the Summer Solstice, this date holds deep spiritual significance in many Indigenous cultures. Communities gather to honour traditions, languages, music, and dance. It is a day to uplift Indigenous voices and stories, to acknowledge past and ongoing injustices, and to celebrate the power of culture and community.
June 21 – Summer Solstice
The Summer Solstice marks the longest day of the year and the peak of the sun’s strength. For many Indigenous nations, this is a time of ceremony, gratitude, and renewal. It represents growth, harmony with nature, and the flourishing of life. On this sacred day, many communities hold gatherings that honour the spirit of the season and the cycles of the earth.
The artwork featured in the 2025 UFCW Canada Indigenous Calendar for June was created by Ciaran Head-Smith, a member of the Opaskwayak Cree Nation and an Architecture design student at Carleton University. Ciaran’s art captures the themes of reconciliation, community, and the spirit of the Strawberry Moon—a visual reminder of love, unity, and healing.
The 13 Grandmother Moon Teachings shared here are drawn from Kinoomaadiewinan Anishinabek Bimaadinzinwin, Book Two by Arlene Berry. Teachings may vary across the many Nations and territories of Turtle Island, each bringing its own unique cultural teachings and ancestral wisdom.
To explore more cultural teachings and important dates, download the Walking Together: 2025 UFCW Canada Indigenous Committee Calendar today.
