Learn about First Nations across Canada

Take time to learn more about the rich and diverse histories, languages, cultures and experiences of First Nations across Canada.
Resources
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This page contains topics that may be distressing to some readers. If you need help, please note there are Indigenous mental health services available.
History
First Nations
The Indigenous Peoples Atlas of Canada provides an in-depth look at the heritage and history of First Nations across Canada.
Gwadàl' Zheii: Belongings from the Land
The Canadian Museum of History's online exhibition explores the rich cultural heritage of the Gwich'in community. This collection includes artifacts, historic and contemporary photographs, as well as oral histories and stories told by Elders.
Virtual Museum Exhibit: Powwow! Ohcîwin The Origins
A virtual tour of the exhibit Powwow! Ohcîwin the Origins created by Patrick and Marrisa Mitsuing of Powwow Times.
Heritage Minute | Tom Longboat
This Heritage Minute follows the life of Onondaga long-distance runner Gagwe:gih, whose name means "Everything." Known around the world as Tom Longboat, he was one of the most celebrated athletes of the early 20th century.
This is our story – Virtual exhibition – Museum of Civilization (not available in English)
This virtual exhibition invites people to discover today's Indigenous cultures, throughout Québec, and their vision of the world. Browse the rooms, observe objects and watch objects animate.
Languages and cultures
First Nations languages and cultures
Learn more about the Indigenous Languages Act, which supports the reclamation, revitalization, preservation and strengthening of Indigenous languages across Canada.
Baskets with a Haida weaver
Ariane Xay Kuyaas (Yaghujaanaas clan, Haida) demonstrates traditional basket-weaving techniques that were passed down from her family. Courtesy of the Canadian Museum of History.
Morning Star – Gambeh Then'
Take in Dene Suline artist, Alex Janvier's masterpiece Morning Star, painted on the ceiling of the Haida Gwaii Salon of the Canadian History Museum.
Experiences of First Nations
Assembly of First Nations – It's Our Time: The AFN Education Toolkit
This multimedia toolkit is designed to bring together First Nations and non-First Nations people to foster a spirit of cooperation, understanding and action.
Ahkameyimok Podcast with National Chief Perry Bellegarde
Former Assembly of First Nations National Chief Perry Bellegarde leads discussions on important issues from a First Nations perspective.
Moment of Reckoning – Turning the Page on a Dark Chapter of Our Shared History
Former students discuss their personal experiences with residential schools and the steps toward reconciliation.
Treaties | Indigenous Peoples Atlas of Canada
Jocelyn Joe-Strack, a member of the Agunda/Wolf clan of the self-governing Champagne and Aishihik First Nations of southwest Yukon, shares the story of her father and his colleagues, who participated in the land claim negotiations across the Yukon.
Continue learning
For more information on First Nations:
Join the conversation
Use the hashtag #NIHM2023 to stay connected on social media and check out these free downloadable images for images for National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day.