While June 21st was first recognized as National Aboriginal Day in 1996, and is now known as National Indigenous Peoples Day, it is a day that has been celebrated long before now.

Elder Philip Michel explains here.

 

Michel said National Indigenous Peoples Day signifies some improvement from the days when he left home and attended Guy Hill Residential School near Clearwater Lake.

However, he said the fight for self-determination will continue until First Nations can quit living under the restrictions of the Indian Act.

Tune in to Thompson Today this afternoon at 12:40 and 5:10 for the full interview with Philip Michel.