Liberal Statement on International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

August 9, 2014

TORONTO – Liberal Aboriginal Affairs Critic Carolyn Bennett made the following statement today on the United Nations’ International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples:

“Today is an opportunity for people around the world to acknowledge and celebrate the traditions and cultures of Indigenous peoples. I urge all Canadians to mark this day by paying tribute to the distinctive traditions and cultures of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples here in Canada. I would also like to take this opportunity, on behalf of my parliamentary colleagues, to reaffirm the commitment of the Liberal Party of Canada to the core principles set out in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

“Canada is a country that was founded on a nation-to-nation relationship with Indigenous peoples. It is important for us all to reflect upon the nature of that original relationship, which was based on partnership, respect, and cooperation. We all have a responsibility to honour its spirit as we move forward in search of mutual benefit and progress. By respecting Indigenous rights, honouring and implementing treaties, and working in partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, I am confident that together, we will build shared and lasting prosperity to benefit all Canadians.

“On behalf of the Liberal Party of Canada and our Parliamentary Caucus, I invite all Canadians to join me in celebrating the influence of the traditions and cultures of Indigenous peoples both here in Canada and around the world.”