Wednesday, June 21st marks the 21st National Aboriginal Day in Canada.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced early on Wednesday that he would be changing the day's name to National Indigenous Peoples Day.
Today, we celebrate National Aboriginal Day and the history, cultures & traditions of Indigenous Peoples: https://t.co/kthm2Lms9T
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) June 21, 2017
He also released a statement discussing the importance of celebrating, but also working to make changes that will make "a real difference in the lives of Indigenous Peoples."
“Over twenty years ago, the Government of Canada, together with Indigenous organizations, designated this day – the summer solstice – as National Aboriginal Day.
“Every year, we join together on this day to recognize the fundamental contributions that First Nations, Inuit, and the Métis Nation have made to the identity and culture of all Canadians. The history, art, traditions, and cultures of Indigenous Peoples have shaped our past, and continue to shape who we are today.
“No relationship is more important to Canada than the relationship with Indigenous Peoples. Our Government is working together with Indigenous Peoples to build a nation-to-nation, Inuit-Crown, government-to-government relationship – one based on respect, partnership, and recognition of rights.
“We are determined to make a real difference in the lives of Indigenous Peoples – by closing socio-economic gaps, supporting greater self-determination, and establishing opportunities to work together on shared priorities. We are also reviewing all federal laws and policies that concern Indigenous Peoples and making progress on the Calls to Action outlined in the Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish everyone a happy National Aboriginal Day. I invite all Canadians to take part in the #NADCanada activities in their community and to learn about the history, cultures and traditions of Indigenous Peoples. The 150th anniversary of Confederation this year reminds us of the legacy of the past. As we look forward to the next 150 years, we commit to move ahead together in a spirit of reconciliation and respect.
“This year, I am also pleased to announce that from here forward the Government’s intention is to rename this day National Indigenous Peoples Day.”
On #NationalAboriginalDay, I invite Cdns to take part in #NAD activities & learn + the history, cultures & traditions of Indigenous peoples pic.twitter.com/NjLhRIW1UJ
— Carolyn Bennett (@Carolyn_Bennett) June 21, 2017
The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to address the calls to action issues that were addressed in the Truth and Reconciliation Report. Some of the call to action items include revising the Federal government's approach to education, sports, health, language and culture, and more.
The Prime Minister mentioned that during Canada Day, there would be time set aside to revisit the "legacy of the past."
In British Columbia, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, John Rustad, talked about how the 21st National Aboriginal Day provides an opportunity for "Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities throughout British Columbia (to) come together to honour the rich traditions, cultures and histories of First Nations, Metis and Inuit people in our province."
"British Columbia is a rich tapestry," he stated.
He talked about the diverse voices being a rich tapestry of B.C. and emphasized the need to listen to the voices of Aboriginal people.
"The Truth and Reconciliation Commission states that reconciliation is about establishing and maintaining a mutually respectful relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples in this country. Reconciliation is a journey of many steps, big and small, and it is a journey we must walk together in genuine partnership," stated Rustad.
Honouring the diverse cultures, histories, and traditions of Aboriginal people in BC. #NationalAboriginalDay https://t.co/UCmo0wUlvV pic.twitter.com/QHO8mcUvRp
— Christy Clark (@christyclarkbc) June 21, 2017
"In the spirit of reconciliation, recognition and renewal, I hope that British Columbians embrace the spirit of National Aboriginal Day. By doing so, you are helping to recognize that reconciliation is not just an Aboriginal imperative; it is an imperative for all British Columbians. It is an imperative we must take to heart on all the days that follow," stated Rustad.
Chicago Blackhawks player, Jordin Tootoo was awarded Meritorious Service Medal for his work as an advocate for Indigenous LGBT youth.
Very honored and humbled to receive the Meritorious Service Medal from @GGDavidJohnston pic.twitter.com/Qi1XTSdxkp
— Jordin Tootoo (@Jtootoo22) June 19, 2017
Happy National Aboriginal day. Today we celebrate our culture and traditions. #Nunavut #Inuit #Inuk #ArcticChar pic.twitter.com/dMCylPflLX
— Jordin Tootoo (@Jtootoo22) June 21, 2017
