First Nations Youth 'Bout to Start a Whole Movement ✊

The Deets

Okay, so listen up. First Nations youth are like, "Nah, we ain't feeling this," and are planning a summer full of protests. They're hella pressed about Bill C-5 and some new Ontario laws that they say are gonna let big projects steamroll over their lands and culture. They're saying the government ain't even consulting them, which is sus.

These Gen Z and millennial leaders are taking inspo from the Anishinaabe Seven Fires Prophecy, which is pretty deep. Some are even getting back to the land and learning traditional knowledge as a form of resistance. It's like they're saying, "You can't take this away from us."

And speaking of resistance, remember Idle No More? Some leaders are saying this could be a similar sitch. They're worried about the environment, especially the Great Lakes, and want future generations to be able to protect the land. Big mood.

Indigenous Peoples Day: A Vibe Check

But it's not all doom and gloom. It's also Indigenous Peoples Day! Events are popping off all over Canada to celebrate the cultures and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Even Prime Minister Mark Carney and Gov. Gen. Mary Simon are getting in on the action.

There's a Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival in Ottawa with powwows and traditional food. And in Winnipeg, the Many Nations, One Heartbeat Festival is gonna be lit for 11 days, showcasing Indigenous performances and crafts. Toronto's also throwing down with the Na-Me-Res Traditional Powwow and Indigenous Arts Festival at Fort York. It's all about honoring Indigenous communities, especially those affected by the Manitoba wildfires.

Manitoba Wildfires: It's Still Rough Out Here

Speaking of which, those wildfires in Manitoba are still causing major chaos. Thousands of people had to evacuate, and things are still pretty sus. But shoutout to Jenna Taylor, a UBC Okanagan student, who's out here making interactive maps to show the fires' spread and intensity. She's even including wind and air-quality forecasts, and links to donate to evacuees. That's a real one.

Over 17,000 people have been displaced, and over 200 homes in Denare Beach, Saskatchewan, were straight-up torched. But there's some hope on the horizon – residents of Flin Flon might be able to return home soon. Let's hope so!