Riding with Respect – Celebrating Indigenous Strength and Community

June 21st marks National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day to honour the culture, history, and ongoing contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across the Northwest Territories and Canada.

At Cycling NWT, we are proud to see the sport embraced by Indigenous youth, families, and leaders in communities across the territory, from gravel roads in remote regions to organized races on the highway and trail networks.

Bikes offer more than a way to train or compete, they are a means of freedom, healing, exploration, and connection to the land. In many Indigenous communities, cycling is becoming a tool to support wellness, mental health, youth engagement, and community pride.

Today we:

Celebrate the Indigenous riders and role models who inspire others to get on a bike and move with purpose
Acknowledge the lands we ride on and the knowledge held by the people who have cared for these lands since time immemorial
Commit to making cycling more accessible, inclusive, and community driven across the North

Cycling NWT is deeply grateful for the relationships built with Indigenous communities and the partnerships that help move this sport forward in a way that reflects the people, place, and potential of the North.

As we ride forward together, we do so with respect, gratitude, and a shared vision for healthier, stronger, more connected communities.