Green Party urges solidarity with Aboriginal peoples

We must work to eliminate persistent inequalities

OTTAWA – Green Party leader Elizabeth May today called on Canadians to mark today, National Aboriginal Day, by supporting First Nations, Inuit, Innu and Métis people in their demands for true nation-to-nation negotiations towards solving Aboriginal problems.

“We cannot call ourselves an enlightened society when dramatic inequalities persist on First Nations reserves and among off-reserve urban Aboriginals across Canada,” said Ms. May.

“The long and growing list of legitimate Aboriginal grievances – outstanding land claims, water that is too dangerous to drink, serious health problems from diabetes to tuberculosis, addiction and suicide, poor housing and high unemployment – make a mockery of our social safety net.”

Lorraine Rekmans, Aboriginal Affairs critic for the Green Party and an Ojibway of mixed heritage said National Aboriginal Day was “a bittersweet day for all in Canada.”

“This is a day to celebrate the contributions we as Aboriginal peoples have made to Canada and a day to dream about what we have yet to contribute in a partnership relationship that is based on respect,” she said.

“We can acknowledge this day solemnly, as we all have much work to do to correct the outstanding injustices that Aboriginal peoples face. We cannot ignore the fact that many communities such as Kiticisakik are still living in deplorable conditions.

“This day is a chance to reflect and resolve to rekindle past relationships between Canadians and Aboriginal peoples that were based in equitable partnerships. This is also a day on which we should all celebrate our commitment to cultural diversity and living together in a good way.”

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Contact:
Camille Labchuk
613-882-4761