Ministerial Statement – Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21
June 17, 2021
The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation and Labrador Affairs:
Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to the attention of this Honourable House that Monday, June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day.
This is a day to acknowledge the diverse and unique cultures and achievements of Indigenous peoples in Newfoundland and Labrador, and across Canada.
We are also called upon to take a somber moment and reflect on the 215 children from the Kamloops residential school who did not get an opportunity to grow up and follow their dreams.
I would like to repeat that mantra which evokes in all of us a responsibility to do better – that is – ‘Every Child Matters’.
As we emerge from the pandemic, some Indigenous organizations are planning in-person activities; others are staging virtual events on Monday. There are opportunities for all of us to engage and learn about Indigenous traditions and history.
Our government has resolved to strengthen relationships with Indigenous governments and organizations. Through mutual respect, listening, and learning, we are making progress. The weekly meeting that the Premier and I have with Indigenous leaders is one example.
As part of our efforts to learn from the past and make amends, we continue on our journey of Reconciliation. On National Indigenous Peoples Day, we encourage everyone to find out how they can increase their knowledge about Indigenous history, values and teachings.
As we join with Indigenous peoples throughout our vast land, we hear and support their advocacy to make things better, and we share their hopes for a brighter future.
Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day.
Thank you.
NT5
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