June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, culminating in National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. This month is a meaningful opportunity to learn about and celebrate the cultures, traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.

Discover Surrey gratefully acknowledges that the lands on which we work, play and learn are the unceded shared territories of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the SEMYOME (Semiahmoo), q̓ic̓əy̓ (Katzie), q̓ʷɑ:n̓ƛ̓ən̓ (Kwantlen), kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem) and qiqéyt (Qayqayt) and sc̓əwaθən məsteyəxʷ (Tsawwassen) First Nations.

As we honour National Indigenous History Month, we take time to reflect on the stories, traditions, and enduring stewardship of Indigenous Peoples who have cared for these lands since time immemorial.

It’s a chance to learn, listen, and celebrate the vibrant cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities — past, present, and future.

We encourage you to explore Indigenous experiences, support Indigenous-owned businesses, and engage with resources that help build understanding and move us all toward meaningful reconciliation.

Scroll down to discover ways to learn, connect, and take action this National Indigenous History Month.

• Explore Indigenous Tourism BC for offerings and experiences all across British Columbia.
  
  
• Visit the Surrey Urban Indigenous Leadership Committee and read the All Our Relations Strategy for insights into the experiences of urban Indigenous life in Surrey. 
  
  
• Explore the Halq'eméylem and SENĆOŦEN languages by visiting First Voices.
  
  
• Learn about traditional protocols, histories and current realities of Indigenous, Metis and Inuit people in Canada, and the misconceptions about the First People of this land by reading Surrey First Peoples Guide for Newcomers.

Totest Aleng: Indigenous Learning House - Totest Aleng – Surrey’s Indigenous Learning House is a space for connection, gathering and learning. The site includes a designated studio to support artistic practices and artists in residence, with the vision of becoming an Indigenous cultural hub for carving, beading, cedar weaving, artist talks and storytelling, as well as an open-air, covered pavilion with a seating area, that can be used for cultural sharing and group programs.

Amelia Douglas Institute of Metis Culture and Language - Immerse yourself in Métis heritage at the Amelia Douglas Institute for Métis Culture and Language, a cultural gem in Surrey. This intimate gallery showcases rotating exhibits that celebrate Métis history, language, and artistry. Admission is by donation, with free entry for Métis citizens. 

Indigenous Hall - Museum of Surrey
Museum of Surrey regularly features exhibits developed in partnership with Indigenous communities, highlighting local stories, traditions, and contributions. The Indigenous Hall is presented by Katzie, Kwantlen and Semiahmoo First Nations.

Two Pebbles Design Group - Two Pebbles creates and designs unique pieces that can make your home your own.  Owned by Surrey locals, Amber Boutros and Wendy Salis, Wendy draws from her Métis heritage and leans towards working with found items and natural materials. Sales are primarily online, but you can find them at select craft fairs. 

Ryan Hughes - Ryan is a Coast Salish artist and carver from the Snuneymuxw First Nation, now based in Surrey. His work blends traditional and contemporary styles across wood carving, digital art, painting, and more. Drawing from his lived experience in an urban Indigenous community, Ryan shares teachings and stories through his art — always with the intention of uplifting youth and community. 

Eagle Woman Beads - Owned by artist Natasha Toth, Eagle Woman Beads offers beautifully handcrafted jewellery rooted in Indigenous culture. Each piece is made with care using natural materials like abalone, buffalo teeth, dentalium, and howlite. Whether you’re choosing from her unique designs or creating something custom, Natasha’s beadwork is a meaningful way to support an Indigenous-owned business and wear a piece of cultural artistry.

Cheryl's Trading Post - Cheryl’s Trading Post is an Indigenous-owned online shop offering authentic, handcrafted Indigenous art, jewellery, clothing, and home décor. With a focus on supporting Indigenous artists and makers from across Turtle Island, the shop features everything from beaded earrings to traditional carvings. Now exclusively online, Cheryl’s Trading Post makes it easy to explore and purchase meaningful pieces while supporting Indigenous culture and craftsmanship from wherever you are.

Stephen's Coffee - Surrey-based and Indigenous-owned, Stephen’s Coffee is a small-batch roastery offering a range of unique blends for both retail and wholesale. You’ll also find them serving up cold brew and nitro coffee at local events and festivals. Their blends feature names like “Thunderbird,” “Orca,” and “Frog”.