Today, the Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services, provided her congratulations to the youth delegates at the annual Gathering Our Voices conference being held this week in British Columbia. The event is bringing together more than 1,000 youth, chaperones and special guests to share and celebrate Indigenous cultures and best practices to help develop the next generation of Indigenous leaders.

“Together at this conference, you are making positive changes in your lives and in your communities to support the future of First Nations in Canada. Your pride in who you are and what you can achieve is inspiring to all.‎ The Government of Canada is proud to support the annual Gathering Our Voices conference.‎”

The Honourable Jane Philpott, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous Services 

“Gathering Our Voices Indigenous Youth Leadership Training brings together more than 1,000 youth delegates, chaperones, presenters and guests on the territory of Musqueam First Nation.  This year’s event theme is Strengthening Our Voices, where we empower youth to engage with some of the tough issues facing our world today, including the environment and human rights. The purpose of these gatherings is to unite youth throughout the country in learning, healing and sharing and to provide tangible tools, resources and knowledge that the youth can use to empower themselves, and share with their communities.”

Patricia Moore
General Manager, BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres 

• Indigenous Services Canada provided $300,000 to support this year’s Gathering Our Voices conference.

• The BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres is made up of 25 Friendship Centres located throughout the Province of BC.

• Friendship Centres provide a variety of services for Indigenous peoples located in urban settings.

Associated links

• BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres
• Gathering Our Voices

Andrew MacKendrick
Office of the Honourable Jane Philpott
Minister of Indigenous Services
819-956-5372

Media Relations
Indigenous Services Canada
819-953-1160

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