The Summer Solstice is just a few days away, occurring this Wednesday on June 21. For many people, this marks the longest day of the year (the day with the most sunlight), but it is a day of celebrations, community, and harmony for some cultures.

There are four significant celestial events observed by Indigenous people across the Americas – the spring equinox, summer solstice, fall equinox, and winter solstice. Today, we’ll be talking about the meaning of Summer Solstice and its importance.The summer solstice marks the closest approach in the sacred dance of the sun, known to the Anishinaabe people as grandfather sun (giizis). In the night sky (giizhig), grandfather sun will reach a high standing point in the Northern Sky, which gives the longest day of the year on Mother Earth.

During this time of the Summer Solstice is the Strawberry Moon (Ode’imini-giizis) phase, the heart berry that resembles the heart in shape and colour; the leaves and roots are all connected, just as a human heart. This is a time for people to set aside differences, resentments, and judgements – a time of forgiveness. During this time of Summer Solstice and Strawberry Moon, Indigenous people will gather in ceremonies, feasts, and sun dances. Summer Solstice indicates it is time when Sun Dance Ceremonies begin throughout Turtle Island (the Americas).

Indigenous people of various tribes will hold ceremonial gatherings and events during the time of Summer Solstice in their communities; some will gather for four days in ceremony and teachings. Today during this present time, there are also events such as Pow Wow celebrations throughout Turtle Island (Canada and US).No matter what cultural background you come from, enjoy this special day that marks the first day of summer, the longest day of the year, and the Solstice that brings community and harmony together.