June 21st marks National Indigenous People’s Day, a celebration of the vibrant culture and valuable contributions of the Canadian Indigenous Community. To honour the people who enrich our nation’s fabric, Google worked with a designer from our capital city to create a Google Doodle.
About the Indigenous Day Google Doodle
Ottawa-based Indigenous illustrator and animator Shaikara David is from the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory and created the Google Doodle to incorporate informative changes to the logo to teach people about the holiday’s significance. The design includes ribbon skirts and ribbon shirts, which are handmade garments worn by Indigenous communities that are a symbol of Indigenous pride. They often symbolize empowerment, strength, resilience, honour, respect, and connection to the earth, though their meaning can vary somewhat. Each individual is free to include elements of their personality in the shirts and skirts, turning them into a spiritual canvas to express one’s creativity and experience.
“Ribbon skirts and ribbon shirts are beautiful garments that hold so much significance to Indigenous communities, including my own,” said David in a statement. “I’m honoured to celebrate and build awareness for my culture and customs through my art, and I hope those who see my Doodle are drawn to its beauty and colours and inspired to learn more about Indigenous communities across Turtle Island.”
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“Ribbonwork, also known as ribbon appliqué, is a traditional decorative art form with origins dating back to the early 19th century,” says a Google Doodle explainer page. “It was first practiced in several bands near the Great Lakes before spreading to those in the prairies and plains.”
For her part, David, who was born and raised in the Mohawk Nation of Akwesasne and now residing in Ottawa, began her artistic journey in TV animation as a background painter and assistant art director before she followed her passion for illustration – particularly Indigenous-themed illustration – full time in 2023.
