June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada. This is a time to recognize the rich histories, cultures, languages, and enduring resilience of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Gymnastics BC (GymBC) is proud to pause and reflect on the significance of this month, and to encourage our athletes, coaches, families, and clubs across the province to learn, listen, and engage.

June 21st holds particular meaning, marking National Indigenous Peoples Day, on the day of the summer solstice which carries deep cultural and spiritual significance for many Indigenous communities. We encourage everyone in the GymBC community to take a moment on June 21 to acknowledge and celebrate the Indigenous peoples on whose territories we work and play.

BC is home to the most diverse range of Indigenous Nations in Canada. As an organization rooted in community, movement, and belonging, GymBC recognizes that meaningful reconciliation is ongoing work, not something that begins and ends with a single month on the calendar. That includes listening to Indigenous voices, supporting Indigenous-led sport initiatives, and working toward a gymnastics community where everyone feels genuinely welcome.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 Calls to Action include five specifically focused on sport and recreation. Among them: supporting Indigenous athlete development, promoting Indigenous inclusion in sport programs, and ensuring that national sport bodies work to reduce barriers and celebrate Indigenous cultures in meaningful ways. These calls are a reminder that our sector has both a responsibility and an opportunity to be part of this work.

How Clubs Can Engage:

• Begin practices or events with meaningful land acknowledgements.

• Invite Indigenous speakers, coaches, or elders to share knowledge.

• Provide learning opportunities for staff on Truth and Reconciliation.

• Recognize Indigenous athletes and leaders within the community.

Why It Matters:

• Inclusion isn’t complete without acknowledging the histories and voices of Indigenous Peoples. Honouring these perspectives creates a richer, more connected sport culture.

Resources to Explore:

• Government of Canada - National Indigenous History Month

• viaSport - Reconciliation in Sport

• NCTR - Truth & Reconciliation Teaching Resources

• Native Land Digital - Interactive Map Showing Indigenous Territories and More

• SIRC - Reconciliation in Canadian Sport

GymBC recognizes that we work on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.