National Aboriginal Day an opportunity to work on reconciliation

NDP Caucus marking day in Millbrook, Halifax Commons

HALIFAX – Institutions and government should focus on actions to improve the lives of Indigenous peoples and promote reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit, and Metis communities, says the NDP. June 21 is celebrated as National Aboriginal Day.

“National Aboriginal Day is an opportunity to reflect on our responsibilities to Aboriginal peoples and to commit ourselves to the actions that are needed to promote reconciliation,” said NDP Leader Gary Burrill. “The NDP caucus is committed to implementing the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and to working with Mi’kmaq communities on how to further act in solidarity with Aboriginal people in Nova Scotia.”

Last year, the NDP Caucus introduced legislation that would require the government to implement the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that fall under provincial jurisdiction. The legislation would also require the Premier to report on the progress of this implementation to the Legislature.

“We all have responsibilities under the Peace and Friendship Treaties signed between European settlers and Mi’kmaq people and today we can honour those responsibilities by committing to building more respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities in the spirit of justice and healing,” said Lenore Zann, NDP spokesperson on Aboriginal Affairs. “Today also provides an opportunity to celebrate the resilient and thriving presence of Aboriginal languages, cultures, spirituality, and art.”

Members of the NDP Caucus will mark National Aboriginal Day in Millbrook First Nation and on the Halifax Commons.

-30-