Ref. #2-3475
OTTAWA, ONTARIO (March 14, 2011) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, issued the following statement today on the passing of Dr. Olive Dickason:
“I wish to express my profound sadness at the passing of Dr. Olive Dickason, whose numerous accomplishments remain an inspiration to Aboriginal peoples, scholars and all Canadians. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to her family, friends and former colleagues.
Dr. Dickason was an accomplished journalist who was also a renowned academic later in life. Using her knowledge and skills, she was a pioneer in documenting the historic contributions Aboriginal peoples made to the whaling, forestry, and the fur trade industries – Canada's first economic activities.
In honour of her work, she received several honorary degrees and was awarded the Macdonald Prize, which is one of the most prestigious awards in Canadian historiography. Dr. Dickason was also made member of the Order of Canada in 1996. In 1997 she received a National Aboriginal Achievement Award for her lifetime achievements for bringing a unique and much-needed perspective to the history of Canada and Aboriginal people.
Dr. Dickason was proud of the contributions Aboriginal people made to the creation of Canada and will be remembered for her role in sharing that important story with all Canadians.”
The Honourable John Duncan
Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and
Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians
Minister's Office
Michele-Jamali Paquette
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
