(OTTAWA) - Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada and MP (Saanich – Gulf Islands), issued the following statement on International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples:
“Today is an opportunity for people around the world to celebrate Indigenous cultures, including more than 5 000 distinct groups in over 90 countries. Here in Canada, we pay tribute to the traditions and cultures of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
“This spring’s report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which document the horrors to which First Nations people were subjected in Residential Schools, presents a path to right the wrongs inflicted on Indigenous peoples. The path to reconciliation and justice will not be an easy one. Generations of Indigenous peoples were abused through a program of cultural genocide. That first step to reconciliation was when I tabled the report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to Parliament. We will continue to work in the next Parliament to implement the report’s recommendations and strive towards a Canada That Works. Together.
“A key element of our approach to governance is the creation of a Council of Canadian Governments with room at the table for the federal government; provincial and territorial governments; municipal and local governments; and First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. The Council of Canadian Governments will set national goals for all areas of public policy. Facing the scandal of inadequate drinking water, housing, and education for Indigenous people in Canada is an urgent priority for Greens.”
“I invite all Canadians to join me in celebrating the traditions and cultures of Indigenous peoples both in Canada and around the world.”
Lorraine Rekmans, Green Party Indigenous Affairs Critic and candidate (Leeds – Grenville – Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes), continued:
“I believe that the Green Party by far has the best platform to address social and economic justice for Indigenous peoples in Canada. Our proposal to institute a Council of Canadian Governments speaks to inclusiveness in decision making regarding Indigenous rights and interests.”
“We are committed to bringing governments at all levels around the same table. We have respect for the Supreme Court's findings on the issue of title.”
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For additional information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Kirsten Strom
Executive Assistant to Director of Communications
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Or
Julian Morelli
Director of Communications
Green Party of Canada
cell: (613) 614 4916
office: (613) 562 4916 (224)
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