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NATIONAL ABORIGINAL DAY JUNE 21ST

Ottawa, Ontario (June 20, 2005) - The Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians encourages the celebration of National Aboriginal Day on June 21st, as Canada renews its commitment to First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

“On May 31st, the Government of Canada signed accords with representatives of the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Métis National Council, Congress of Aboriginal Peoples and the Native Women’s Association of Canada. These accords reflect the Government’s commitment to a renewed and strengthened relationship with Canada’s First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.” says Minister Scott. “The accords form the basis of a new era of cooperation aimed at ensuring full partnership in the development of First Nations, Inuit and Métis policies, which makes this year a very special one in which to celebrate National Aboriginal Day.”

The Government of Canada chose June 21st for National Aboriginal Day, in cooperation with national Aboriginal organizations, because it’s the summer solstice – the longest day of the year, and a day on which First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples have for generations celebrated their culture and heritage. It’s a day of celebration, recognition and of relationship-building. Setting aside this day is part of the wider recognition of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples’ important place within the fabric of Canada and their ongoing contributions.

Proclaimed in 1996 by then Governor General Romeo LeBlanc, National Aboriginal Day celebrations in the National Capital Region are planned each year by a coordinating committee composed of national Aboriginal organizations along with Indian and Northern Affairs and Canadian Heritage. Events across Canada are organized by local organizations; First Nation, Inuit, and Métis communities and groups; schools, business and government. In 2004, more than 250,000 people participated at some 400 events across Canada. Festivities take place from coast, to coast, to coast. Information about local celebrations can be found on the website at: www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/nad/ .

National Aboriginal Day is the first day of the Celebrate Canada! festivities, which also include: Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24th, Multiculturalism Day held June 27th, and Canada Day, July 1st.

For further Information, please contact:

Margot Geduld
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(819) 994-2044

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