Statement from the Minister of National Defence and the Minister of Veterans Affairs to mark the 20th annual National Aboriginal Day

Statement

June 21, 2016 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Minister of National Defence Harjit S. Sajjan and Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence Kent Hehr today issued the following statement to recognize National Aboriginal Day:

“National Aboriginal Day was created 20 years ago as a celebration of the contributions that First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people have made to Canadian culture and society. At the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces, we take pride in our diversity. We continue to work towards our goal of a diverse modern military that is strengthened by the unique perspectives of our Aboriginal members,” said Minister Sajjan.

“We remember as many as 12,000 courageous Indigenous people who served Canada in the great conflicts and peace support missions of the 20th century. More than 500 made the ultimate sacrifice. We also express our gratitude for the service and sacrifices of the many Indigenous men and women who continue to serve in our Canadian Armed Forces today,” said Minister Hehr.

“The Government of Canada is committed to working in full partnership with Aboriginal communities. In that true spirit of cooperation and respect, I invite all Canadians, whether military or civilian, Aboriginal or not, to seek out opportunities to enjoy this important day in their community, together,” said Minister Sajjan.

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For more information, visit:

Aboriginal-Canadian Veterans (VAC)
Aboriginal Peoples in the Canadian Armed Forces (DND)
(Video) Statement from MND to Mark the 20^th Annual National Aboriginal Day

Contacts

Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-2353
Toll-Free: 1-866-377-0811
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca

Hon. Kent Hehr Hon. Harjit Singh Sajjan Veterans Affairs Canada National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces Military