Liberal statement on National Aboriginal Day

June 21, 2014

OTTAWA AND TORONTO – The Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement on National Aboriginal Day:

“Today, on National Aboriginal Day, Canadians take the time to celebrate the culture and history of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.

“Let us take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to creating real and meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal communities based on inherent and treaty rights, as we work to build a more prosperous future. May we never forget our shared responsibility to work together towards achieving better outcomes for all Aboriginal Peoples across Canada.

“On behalf of the Liberal Party of Canada and our Parliamentary Caucus, I encourage all Canadians to join in celebrating the tremendous contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit to Canadian society, contributions upon which our country was built.”

Liberal Aboriginal Affairs Critic, Dr. Carolyn Bennett, continued:

“Far too many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities continue to be denied the basic necessities to which all Canadians are entitled. Today, let us reaffirm our commitment to working with Aboriginal peoples in Canada to ensure, among other things, their access to safe drinking water, adequate housing, educational opportunities, and economic prosperity.”