Green Party acknowledges International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples

NEW GLASGOW – The Green Party is recognizing the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples by calling on the government of Canada to promote the full and effective participation of Aboriginal people in decisions which directly impact their lands, culture and rights and supports the call for their free, prior and informed consent in decision making.

The UN General Assembly has designated August 9th as the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples.

"This is a day to move forward with the inclusion of Aboriginal peoples in national laws and policies that address issues,” said Green Party leader Elizabeth May. “This is a day to celebrate a commitment to cultural diversity. But we need to acknowledge and begin the work that is needed to address the vast disparities in Canada where Aboriginal people are concerned.”

"Many Aboriginal peoples in Canada suffer from lack of clean drinking water, poor infrastructure, barriers to education and are disproportionately impacted by the effects of global warming,” said Aboriginal Affairs Critic Lorraine Rekmans. “The government of Canada has to introduce a plan that addresses these issues and other issues. On this day, I hope to remind the government that we must make good following the residential schools apology and adopt targeted policies, programs and budgets to address the issues that Aboriginal people face in Canada.”