Every year on June 21, Canadians celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day during National Indigenous History Month, a time to recognize and honour the cultures, traditions, histories, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. Here in Orillia, Oro-Medonte, and Severn, this day holds a particularly meaningful connection through the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, whose history, culture, and stewardship of the land have shaped this region for generations.
Long before roads connected our communities and cottages lined the lakeshores, the waterways that define Lake Country served as important travel routes, gathering places, and sources of sustenance for the Anishinaabe people. The lakes, rivers, forests, and shorelines that visitors enjoy today have been home to Indigenous Peoples for thousands of years. The Chippewas of Rama First Nation, an Ojibwe community located on the eastern shore of Lake Couchiching, maintain a deep and enduring relationship with these lands and waters. Their traditional territory extends throughout much of the region.
National Indigenous Peoples Day offers an opportunity to learn about that connection and to recognize that Indigenous culture is not simply part of the region’s history, it remains a vibrant and living part of the community today.
Visitors are often drawn to Orillia & Lake Country for its natural beauty. They paddle the lakes, hike local trails, explore waterfront parks, and spend time immersed in the landscapes that make this destination so special. What many may not realize is that these same landscapes have long been places of teaching, gathering, ceremony, trade, and community for Indigenous Peoples.
Whether through Indigenous storytelling, art, language, cultural events, community initiatives, or local businesses, there are many ways to respectfully engage with and learn from Indigenous culture. National Indigenous Peoples Day encourages all of us to move beyond acknowledgement and toward understanding through listening, learning, and meaningful connection.
For visitors exploring the region, consider taking time to learn about the history of Rama First Nation and the ongoing contributions of its people. Seek out opportunities to learn from Indigenous voices and support Indigenous-owned businesses.
Stay: Escape to nature at Black River Wilderness Park, where visitors can camp, stay in a cabin, or yurt, and experience the beauty of the Black River and surrounding wilderness.
Shop: Discover Indigenous-made gifts, artwork, apparel, and handcrafted goods at Biindigen and The Gathering Place Stores or stop by one of the Rama First Nation Smoke Shops and Rama Country Market to support local Indigenous businesses. Visitors can also explore Rama Cannabis, a locally owned retailer offering a welcoming and uniquely curated experience that reflects Indigenous entrepreneurship within the community, and an approach unlike many traditional retail environments.
Explore: If you are boating, fishing, or simply taking in the views, dock your boat at Ojibway Bay Marina, located on the shores of Lake Couchiching. It is a wonderful way to experience the landscapes that have connected Indigenous communities to this region for generations.
As we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day, we encourage residents and visitors alike to take time to listen, learn, and reflect. By doing so, we gain a deeper appreciation not only for Rama First Nation, but for the rich cultural heritage that continues to shape our region today.
