OTTAWA, ONTARIO (June 21, 2012) – The following statement was released by the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, on the occasion of National Aboriginal Day:
"On June 21st, Canadians from across the country will come together to join in National Aboriginal Day festivities. Since its proclamation in 1996, National Aboriginal Day has been a day to celebrate the rich cultures and important traditions of Aboriginal people.
National Aboriginal Day also begins the eleven-day Celebrate Canada
program, which takes place during National Aboriginal History Month. Instituted through a motion passed in Parliament in 2010, National Aboriginal History Month offers Canadians even more opportunities to better understand cultural diversity and unique accomplishments of First Nations, Métis and Inuit.
I invite all Canadians to take part in National Aboriginal Day 2012. When we join in celebration, we strengthen the relationships that have contributed to the development of this nation. Together, we can look ahead to a future filled with opportunity.
Share in the celebration on National Aboriginal Day and honour the contributions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit in Canada."
Jan O'Driscoll
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
