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June 4, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Canadian Armed Forces Day:
“Today, we come together to honour the brave members of the Canadian Armed Forces – both past and present – for their remarkable courage, sacrifice, and selflessness in defending Canada’s values, interests, and sovereignty, both at home and abroad.
“As we continue to face threats to global stability, the service of our Canadian Armed Forces is more important than ever – from providing military training and capacity building in support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Operation UNIFIER, to supporting NATO’s assurance and deterrence measures in Central and Eastern Europe on Operation REASSURANCE. Right here at home, they are also providing invaluable assistance to communities impacted by floods, wildfires, and other natural disasters. Whether it be at sea, on land, or in the air, our Canadian Armed Forces are keeping us safe, and we owe them and their loved ones our infinite gratitude for the sacrifices they make every day.
“In Canada, diversity is our strength. That is why the Canadian Armed Forces are taking action to continue building a force that is open to all by addressing and implementing the recommendations from last year’s Final Report for the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination.
“To all members of the Canadian Armed Forces past and present: your service is invaluable to us. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I thank you, as well as your families and loved ones, for your selfless commitment to our country.”
June 3, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Premier of Quebec, François Legault, to discuss wildfires in Quebec and the evacuation orders in effect in several of the province’s municipalities.
The Prime Minister and the Premier underscored the extensive collaboration between their governments. Premier Legault thanked Prime Minister Trudeau for the rapid deployment of the Canadian Armed Forces in support of impacted communities, in response to the Quebec government’s request for assistance.
Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated that the Government of Canada stands ready to continue providing the necessary support to Quebec and all regions impacted by wildfires.
The Prime Minister and the Premier agreed to remain in close contact as the situation in Quebec continues to evolve.
Following his call with Premier Legault, Prime Minister Trudeau also had the opportunity to speak with elected officials representing some of the most severely impacted communities, including the Mayor of Sept-Îles, Steeve Beaupré, the Mayor of Chapais, Isabelle Lessard, and the Uashat mak Mani-Utenam Chief, Mike McKenzie.
Associated Links
June 3, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement to mark four years since the publication of the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls:
“Four years ago today, the sombre, painful, and heartbreaking realities endured by Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people in Canada were brought to light once again when the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls unveiled its conclusive findings in its final report. On this day, we honour those who lost their lives, those who continue to experience violence, and the survivors and their families who bravely stepped forward to share their truths. Today, we also recommit ourselves to continue taking action to end violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.
“The National Inquiry confirmed a reality that many Indigenous people already knew: that our system is failing them. The report called for sweeping legal and social changes, across governments and in communities, to address the root causes and help stop the violence that continues to affect Indigenous communities today.
“In the past year alone, we have taken significant action, as part of our implementation of the National Action Plan and the Federal Pathway, and in partnership with Indigenous Peoples. We appointed Jennifer Moore Rattray, a member of the Peepeekisis First Nation in Saskatchewan and the former Executive Director of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, as Ministerial Special Representative to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations earlier this year. In this role, Ms. Rattray will provide recommendations on the establishment of an Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudsperson, in part to address Call for Justice 1.7 of the final report.
“Earlier this week, we also announced new and sustainable ongoing funding to help Indigenous families access information about their missing and murdered loved ones and enhance services and supports for Indigenous victims and survivors of crime. And Budget 2023 included new funding to centre survivors in our approach, create an oversight mechanism to monitor and report on the progress of implementation, and bring together all levels of government, including to work toward launching a “Red Dress Alert” to notify the public when someone goes missing.
“Today, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to working with survivors, families, communities, provinces, and territories as we strive to address and overcome the heartbreaking crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people in Canada. By prioritizing the needs of families and survivors, promoting transparency, and fostering accountability, we honour those we have tragically lost, support those who are healing, and protect current and future generations against unjustifiable acts of violence.”
If you or someone you know has been affected by the tragedy of missing and murdered women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, and needs immediate emotional assistance, please call 1-844-413-6649. You can also access mental health support services such as mental health counselling, community-based emotional support and cultural services, and assistance with travel costs to see Elders and traditional healers away from home.
June 2, 2023
Toronto, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Poland, Mateusz Morawiecki, during his visit to Canada.
The prime ministers reaffirmed their joint commitment to supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes, to bring Russia’s brutal and unjustifiable invasion to an end. Canada and Poland continue to collaborate closely in providing multifaceted support to Ukraine, including the training of Ukrainian military personnel through Operation UNIFIER. As long-standing NATO Allies, the two leaders reaffirmed their enduring commitment to the Alliance and looked forward to the upcoming NATO Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, where they will continue to engage on issues affecting transatlantic security.
The leaders discussed efforts to defend, protect, and promote democracy and human rights. The two leaders also discussed energy cooperation, including Canada’s contributions to Poland’s transition away from high-emission energy sources and the use of Russian hydrocarbons. They agreed on the importance of continuing to work together to weaken Russia’s ability to weaponize energy supplies against the world.
The leaders welcomed the growing commercial relationship between Canada and Poland, and discussed opportunities to further strengthen bilateral ties.
Finally, Prime Minister Trudeau underlined the important contributions made to Canada by the vibrant Polish-Canadian community of over 1 million strong. The prime ministers agreed to remain in close contact.
Associated Links
- Canada-Poland relations
- Prime Minister of Poland Mateusz Morawiecki to visit Canada
- Joint statement by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
- Operation UNIFIER
- Canada and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization
June 2, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the first National Day Against Gun Violence:
“Every Canadian deserves to feel safe – whether in their school, in their place of worship, or in their home. Today, as we mark the first National Day Against Gun Violence, we remember those whose lives were taken too soon by senseless acts of gun violence, and we recommit to do better – for their families and loved ones, and for every Canadian.
“Since 2015, we have made significant progress toward ending gun violence in Canada. We banned over 1,500 models of assault-style firearms in 2020. Last year, the government put forward Bill C-21, the toughest gun control legislation in over 40 years. The bill includes a national freeze on handguns and measures to expand background checks and keep firearms out of the wrong hands. And we are investing in gun violence prevention by supporting community-based projects that support young people at risk of gun and gang violence. With measures like these, we are building safer communities across the country.
“Today, we come together to continue raising awareness of the tragic impacts gun violence has in our communities. We pay tribute to the victims of gun violence and pledge to honour their memories by doing better. To anyone who has lost a loved one to gun violence in Canada: We will continue to do whatever it takes to end gun violence in our communities and to build a safer country, for everyone.”
June 2, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Patricia (Pat) Duncan, Senator for the Yukon, to the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians.
Senator Duncan served as a member of the Yukon Legislative Assembly for a decade in various positions, including as the first female premier of the territory from 2000 to 2002. She also worked in the public service for the territorial government, in small business, and served as executive director of the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce.
The National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians is a committee that includes representatives from all recognized parties in the House of Commons and from groups in the Senate. It was established in 2017 and follows a non-partisan approach to review national security and intelligence activities carried out across the Government of Canada, including by the Communications Security Establishment, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
With a focus on issues of accountability, efficacy, and democratic principles, the Committee provides the Prime Minister with an annual report, and special reports when needed. The reports, which include findings and recommendations, are then tabled by the Prime Minister in both the House of Commons and the Senate.
Quote
“Today, I announced the appointment of Senator Duncan to the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians. As democracies around the world face increased threats from foreign interference and disinformation, I will continue to rely on the expert, transparent, and non-partisan advice of parliamentarians on the Committee to help protect our institutions, keep our communities safe, and uphold Canadians’ confidence in our democracy.”
Quick Facts
- With Senator Duncan’s appointment, the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians now includes:
- Stéphane Bergeron, Bloc Québécois
- Don Davies, NDP
- The Honourable Patricia (Pat) Duncan, Senate
- Iqra Khalid, Liberal
- The Honourable Frances Lankin, P.C., C.M., Senate
- Patricia Lattanzio, Liberal
- James Maloney, Liberal
- The Honourable David J. McGuinty, P.C., Liberal (Chair)
- Rob Morrison, Conservative
- Alex Ruff, M.S.C., C.D., Conservative
- The Committee was first created under the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians Act, which received Royal Assent on June 22, 2017. It is dissolved at the end of each session of Parliament, and new members are appointed after the new session of Parliament opens.
- Since its launch, the Committee has produced a number of comprehensive and well-received reports on issues ranging from foreign interference, to cyber threats, to diversity and inclusion within the security and intelligence community.
- The Secretariat of the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians assists the Committee in fulfilling its review mandate.
Associated Link
June 1, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Marianne Rivoalen, a judge of the Federal Court of Appeal, as the new Chief Justice of Manitoba.
Chief Justice Rivoalen replaces the Honourable Richard J. Chartier, who retired, effective October 30, 2022.
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“I wish the Honourable Marianne Rivoalen every success as she takes on her new role as Chief Justice of Manitoba. She is a respected member of the legal community and brings a wealth of legal experience. I am confident Chief Justice Rivoalen will be a great asset to the people of Manitoba.”
Quick Facts
- Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices in Canada are responsible for the leadership and administration of their courts. They also serve as members of the Canadian Judicial Council, which works to improve the quality of judicial services in the superior courts of Canada.
- Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of Cabinet and the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
Biographical Note
June 1, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, joined the President of the Métis National Council, Cassidy Caron, to co-chair the annual Crown-Métis Nation Summit in Ottawa, Ontario, where they were joined by federal Cabinet ministers and presidents from the Métis Nation.
During the Summit, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government of Canada’s commitment to work in partnership with the Métis National Council to build a more prosperous future for all Métis citizens. The Summit provided an opportunity to reconvene and celebrate key accomplishments and establish shared priorities for the future, including health and wellness, languages, education, and economic development. Emergency management was identified as a new shared priority to explore opportunities for government-to-government cooperation.
During the event, the Prime Minister highlighted recent investments to close the socioeconomic gaps for Métis, including to support economic growth and improve access to affordable housing. The leaders also discussed Métis self-government recognition.
The federal government will continue to work with Métis Nation leaders to advance reconciliation and Métis self-determination, and to build a prosperous future for everyone.
Quotes
“In 2016, I promised that the Government of Canada would work with the Métis National Council and Governing Members to deliver on shared priorities. From investing in more affordable housing, to delivering better outcomes on health care, we have made a lot of progress. We know there is much more to be done and we are committed to working in partnership to build a healthy, prosperous future for Métis.”
“Today was another opportunity to work with the Government of Canada and deliver on priorities for Métis citizens across the Homeland. This meeting demonstrated how far we have come in building this relationship and helped to shape how we continue to work together in the future. Hearing the commitment of the federal government in recognizing there is more work to be done, we look forward to working together in a good way to ensure a bright future for all Métis.”
Quick Facts
- Since its creation under the Canada-Métis Nation Accord in 2017, the Canada-Métis Nation Permanent Bilateral Mechanism is helping to renew the government-to-government relationship with Métis partners based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership.
- The Métis Nation was represented at the Summit by the Métis National Council and its Governing Members, including:
- President of the Métis Nation of Ontario, Margaret Froh;
- President of the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan, Glen McCallum;
- President of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Audrey Poitras;
- President of the Métis Nation British Columbia, Lissa Dawn Smith; and
- President of Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak, Melanie Omeniho
- Federal Cabinet ministers also attended:
- Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Marc Miller;
- Minister of Indigenous Services, Patty Hajdu;
- Minister of Northern Affairs, Dan Vandal;
- Minister of Emergency Preparedness, Bill Blair; and
- Minister of Canadian Heritage, Pablo Rodriguez.
- During the Summit, federal and Métis Nation leaders endorsed the Record of Discussion, the Annual Joint Progress Report, the Terms of Reference, a Kindergarten to Grade 12 work plan, and a work plan toward the establishment of Co-development Principles for working with the Métis Nation.
- In recent years, the Government of Canada has made key investments to support Métis communities, such as:
- More than $860 million for Métis Nation communities to build an early learning and childcare system;
- $690 million to support housing in Métis Nation communities;
- More than $400 million toward Métis Nation communities’ skills and employment training, economic development, and to support the startup and expansion of Métis small and medium-sized businesses;
- $867 million to support distinctions-based mental health care and the monitoring and treatment of chronic diseases; and
- More than $360 million over 10 years targeted for Métis Nation post-secondary education.
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Associated Links
- Canada-Metis Nation Accord
- Métis National Council
- The Prime Minister of Canada and President of the Métis National Council welcome the Signing of the Canada-Métis Nation Accord
- Budget 2023—A Made-in-Canada Plan: Strong Middle Class, Affordable Economy, Healthy Future
June 1, 2023
Toronto, Ontario
As a country, we know that one life taken by gun violence is one too many. Everyone in Canada deserves to feel safe in their community.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the first Friday of June each year will be proclaimed the National Day Against Gun Violence. Beginning this June 2, this day will honour the victims of gun violence, bring awareness to the crisis in our country, and encourage Canadians to come together to find solutions.
The announcement was made at the Toronto Raptors’ practice facility, where the Prime Minister was joined by Raptors Vice-Chairman and Team President Masai Ujiri, anti-gun violence community groups, and civic leaders. The Raptors played a critical role in rallying nearly 30,000 Canadians to sign a petition to observe this day.
The National Day Against Gun Violence will be a day of solemn remembrance for the victims of this senseless violence in Canada, and a time to pay tribute to their families and loved ones who live with pain that will never truly go away. It will be a day to recommit to doing better – for those families, and for every Canadian. And it will be a time to envision a better future, where everyone can feel safe in their community.
The Government of Canada has already taken significant action to help keep Canadians safe from gun violence. We banned 1,500 models of assault-style firearms and their variants. We introduced Bill C-21, Canada’s toughest gun control laws in a generation, to combat organized crime, address the alarming role of guns in gender-based violence, and prohibit the sale, purchase, and transfer of handguns. We are also taking preventative action, through the Building Safer Communities Fund, to stop gun violence before it starts by investing in community-led projects to empower young people to make good decisions. And we are securing our borders through investments of nearly half a billion dollars over the past two years and increased cooperation with the United States to stop gun smuggling.
Across the country, gun violence has tragically scarred our communities. Now, every year on the National Day Against Gun Violence, we will recommit to a better future free from gun violence.
Quotes
“Gun violence is a real and serious threat. The annual National Day Against Gun Violence will serve as a solemn reminder of the lives lost, of the families who live with the ongoing pain, and of our collective responsibility to do everything we can to prevent these senseless tragedies by putting an end to gun violence.”
“We owe it to every Canadian who’s lost a loved one to gun violence to do our utmost to prevent the next tragedy. The new National Day Against Gun Violence will help spur action in communities nationwide. I look forward to a national discussion about the impact of gun violence, and how we can all work together to prevent it.”
“By pausing on the first Friday in June to remember those whose lives and families have been destroyed by gun violence, we are taking the first step to solving a problem, which is acknowledging it exists. This day is really a result of the work of community members who have been affected by gun violence. It’s mothers, teachers, friends. We’re grateful to them for raising their voices, and to our federal leaders for hearing them.”
Quick Facts
- As a symbol of peace and ceasefire, Canadians are asked to wear white on National Day Against Gun Violence.
- Gun violence is on the rise. One in three homicides in Canada is related to firearms, and Canada has witnessed an over 80 per cent rise in violent crimes involving guns since 2009.
- Since 2016, the federal government has invested more than $1.3 billion to address gun violence and keep guns out of the hands of gangs and criminals. This includes a commitment of $827.6 million over ten years through the Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, $250 million over five years through the Building Safer Communities Fund, and $312 million over five years to enhance Canada’s firearm control framework.
- Introduced in 2022, Bill C-21 represents the most significant changes to gun control legislation in more than 40 years. It introduces a national freeze on the sale, purchase, and transfer of handguns into law. This national freeze took effect via regulations on October 21, 2022. The Bill also includes significant measures to:
- address the alarming role of guns in gender-based violence through red and yellow flag laws;
- strengthen border controls by increasing maximum penalties for gun traffickers;
- create authorities to combat firearms smuggling, trafficking, and related offences;
- establish new firearm-related offences and strengthened penalties; and
- address the growing threat of illegally manufactured firearms – otherwise known as “ghost guns.”
- In 2020, the Government of Canada prohibited over 1,500 models of assault-style firearms and their variants through regulations. That number has since increased to approximately 2,000 due to new firearms models introduced by manufacturers since the 2020 ban, as well as the addition of variants to the list.
- On March 30, 2023, the Mass Casualty Commission released its final report, “Turning the Tide Together”. The Commission was a joint Canada-Nova Scotia supported public inquiry created to examine the mass casualty of April 18-19, 2020, in Nova Scotia. The final report provides findings to help make communities safer in the future, including recommendations regarding access to firearms, and noting the connection to gender-based and intimate partner violence.
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Associated Links
- Freezing the market on handguns
- Further strengthening our gun control laws
- Government takes action to prevent gun violence with $250 million Building Safer Communities Fund
- Statement by the Prime Minister on the Final Report from the Mass Casualty Commission
- Toronto Raptors Petition
May 31, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of Adeline Webber as the next Commissioner of Yukon for a term of five years.
Born and raised in Whitehorse, Yukon, Adeline Webber is a proud member of the Teslin Tlingit Nation. Throughout her life, she has worked tirelessly for the recognition and acknowledgement of the rights of Indigenous Peoples, particularly women, in the territory. She has also played an important role in the implementation of land claims and First Nation self-government agreements in Yukon.
After spending most of her career in the federal public service, including as the Yukon District Director for the Public Service Commission of Canada, Ms. Webber was appointed as the Administrator of the territory in 2018, and reappointed to this role in 2021.
The Prime Minister took the opportunity to recognize the Honourable Angélique Bernard, whose term as Commissioner ends May 31, for her exceptional service to Yukoners.
Quote
“I congratulate Adeline Webber on her appointment as the next Commissioner of Yukon. Ms. Webber has a remarkable understanding of the unique needs of Indigenous Peoples and all Yukoners, and I am confident that she will continue to serve them well in her new role.”
Quick Facts
- Territorial Commissioners and Administrators are Governor in Council appointments.
- Territorial Commissioners fulfill many of the same duties as the Lieutenant Governor of a province. Their responsibilities include swearing in Members of the Legislative Assembly and Members of the Executive Council, opening the Legislative Assembly, and providing assent for legislation passed by the Assembly.
- Territorial Administrators act in the place of the Commissioner if the Commissioner is unable to fulfill his or her duties during an absence or illness or other situation, or when the office is vacant.
Biographical Note
Associated Link
May 30, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Premier of Alberta, Danielle Smith, to congratulate her on her election and to discuss key areas for cooperation.
The Prime Minister and the Premier discussed Alberta’s wildfire emergency and the ongoing federal assistance being provided.
The two leaders committed to working together as partners to tackle climate change, provide clean and secure energy, create new jobs, and grow the economy for Albertans and all Canadians.
The Prime Minister and the Premier looked forward to continued cooperation in areas of shared interest.
Associated Links
- Statement by the Prime Minister on the results of the provincial election in Alberta
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith
- Alberta and Canada to match Canadian Red Cross donations to support Alberta wildfire response
- Wildfires
May 30, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the Clerk of the Privy Council and Secretary to the Cabinet, Janice Charette, will retire from the public service, effective June 24, 2023.
The Prime Minister congratulated Ms. Charette on her upcoming retirement and thanked her for her nearly 40 year-long career in service of Canada and Canadians, including as the second woman to serve as Clerk of the Privy Council. To honour and recognize her exceptional contribution to public service, Ms. Charette will be appointed as a member of the King’s Privy Council for Canada prior to her retirement.
Quote
“Janice Charette has had an outstanding career as a public servant, which has earned her great respect and recognition both nationally and internationally. I am especially grateful for her advice and leadership as interim Clerk and then Clerk of the Privy Council, where she helped navigate Canada’s recovery out of the pandemic and provided steady leadership to the Canadian public service. I wish her all the best in her future endeavours.”
Quick Fact
- The King’s Privy Council for Canada was established under the Constitution Act, 1867 to provide advice to the Governor General. It includes all past and present federal cabinet ministers, as well as a number of select persons honoured for their contributions to Canada. Members are appointed by the Governor General, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
Biographical Note
Associated Links
May 30, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of John Hannaford as Clerk of the Privy Council and Secretary to the Cabinet, effective June 24, 2023.
Mr. Hannaford is currently Deputy Minister of Natural Resources. He joined the federal public service in 1995 and has served in a number of senior-level positions, including as Deputy Minister of International Trade and Foreign and Defence Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister. From 2009 to 2012, he was Ambassador of Canada to Norway.
To support a seamless transition at the highest rank of the public service, Mr. Hannaford will be appointed as a Senior Official at the Privy Council Office, effective June 1, 2023, until he assumes the role of Clerk.
Mollie Johnson, currently Associate Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, will assume the duties of Deputy Minister of Natural Resources on an interim basis, until such time as a new Deputy Minister is appointed.
Quote
“Mr. Hannaford brings a wealth of experience and a strong reputation to this important role. I am confident that his longstanding commitment to serving Canadians will allow him to lead our world-class public service as it continues to implement the Government of Canada’s agenda and make life better for people across the country.”
Quick Fact
- The role of the Clerk of the Privy Council is to advise the Prime Minister and elected government officials in managing the country, from an objective, non-partisan, public policy perspective. The Clerk also ensures Canada’s federal public service is managed effectively and follows a code of value and ethics in its work to design and deliver high-quality services and programs for Canadians.
Biographical Notes
Associated Link
May 30, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the results of the provincial election in Alberta:
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Danielle Smith and the United Conservative Party of Alberta on their re-election.
“I look forward to continuing to work with Premier Smith and the provincial government to deliver results for Albertans – including growing the economy, creating good jobs for the middle class, improving health care, continuing to position Alberta as a leader in clean energy, and making life more affordable. We will also continue to build on the progress we have made to deliver affordable child care to families in Alberta and move forward on the path of reconciliation.”
June 1, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on National Indigenous History Month:
“Indigenous Peoples have lived on this land for time immemorial and their unique histories shaped the Canada we know today. Today, we mark the beginning of National Indigenous History Month, a month in which we celebrate the rich and varied stories, achievements, and resilience of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
“Only when we learn about and honour the rich history and cultures of Indigenous Peoples in Canada, can we truly walk the path of reconciliation. This month, I invite Canadians to seek out the educational opportunities presented by National Indigenous History Month: engage in local Indigenous-led events and discover books, movies, and music by Indigenous artists. Follow the GCIndigenous Instagram account to learn about inspiring Indigenous trailblazers. Download the Reconciliation: A Starting Point app to learn about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, which are helping us chart a new and better path forward for Indigenous Peoples and for everyone in Canada.
“We cannot separate Indigenous history from our country’s history of colonialism and its lasting impacts, including systemic racism, inequality, and discrimination against Indigenous Peoples. In recent years, the findings of unmarked graves at the sites of former residential schools across the country have served as an important reminder of the pain Indigenous communities continue to bear and the work that remains on the journey of healing.
“National Indigenous History Month is an opportunity to recognize and honour Indigenous history in our communities and across the country. As Indigenous Peoples from coast to coast to coast work to revitalize their cultures and languages, the Government of Canada will continue to be there with support. This month, we recommit to learning from and listening to the stories of Indigenous Peoples to help build a stronger and more inclusive country for everyone.”
