OTTAWA, ONTARIO (June 17, 2010) - The following statement was released by the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians:
“I want to take this opportunity to extend my congratulations to the Haida Nation on the official renaming of the Queen Charlotte Islands located in British Columbia as Haida Gwaii.
This is a significant achievement. All those who live and visit the islands will, now and into the future, have a tangible reminder that the Haida Nation is an integral part of the history of the islands.
The restoration of the name Haida Gwaii, which means Islands of the People,
is of profound importance to the Haida people.
The name change is a fitting tribute to the long and rich history of the Haida Nation. It is deeply symbolic of reconciliation between the Haida and the Crown and breathes new life into Haida heritage.
Once again, on behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my sincere congratulations to the Haida Nation for achieving their goal of bringing back the traditional name to the islands. I also commend the British Columbia government for moving forward with the legislation that made this renaming a reality.”
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
Press Secretary
819-997-0002
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
