OTTAWA,
ON, Aug. 9, 2024 /CNW/ - The Prime Minister,
Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the
International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples:
"On this International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, we
celebrate the cultures, traditions, and resilience of Indigenous
Peoples in Canada and across the
world.
"As we mark this day, we recognize our deep-rooted partnerships
with Indigenous Peoples. Their contributions to the economy, the
environment, and on the international stage are a key part of our
work to build a better future. A better future where Indigenous
Peoples can thrive starts with upholding human rights, addressing
injustices, and moving together on the path of reconciliation. Our
government is here as a partner on that path.
"With the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of
Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan as a roadmap, the
federal government is working with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis
partners to drive positive change. This includes key priorities
like expanding access to quality education, delivering culturally
appropriate health care, creating economic opportunities, and
supporting the efforts of Indigenous Peoples to reclaim,
revitalize, maintain, and strengthen Indigenous languages.
"Earlier this year, we took an important step on our path toward
reconciliation when An Act to provide for the establishment of a
national council for reconciliation officially became law in
Canada. This council will monitor
and report on efforts to implement the Truth and Reconciliation
Commission's 94 Calls to Action as well as the 231 Calls for
Justice delivered in the Final Report of the National Inquiry into
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
"Indigenous Peoples have been the stewards of Canada's lands and waters since time
immemorial. As we make progress toward
achieving the United Nations 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development, their leadership, knowledge, and
relationships with the environment will continue to guide
Canada – and the world – to
protect our planet for future generations.
"Today, on the International Day of the World's Indigenous
Peoples, I invite all Canadians to learn more about Indigenous
Peoples. Let us listen to their voices, honour their stories, and
reaffirm our commitment to a fairer future for everyone."
This document is also available at https://pm.gc.ca
SOURCE Prime Minister's Office