Statement by Minister Joly on National Aboriginal Day


OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - June 21, 2016) - This week, we launch the Celebrate Canada period, a time to discover and appreciate the wealth and diversity of Canadian society. Today is very special because we are celebrating the 20th anniversary of National Aboriginal Day, when Canadians have the opportunity to learn more about the unique heritage, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada.

National Aboriginal Day was created by Royal Proclamation by former Governor General Roméo LeBlanc in 1996, with a view to fostering greater knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal heritage. Take the opportunity to attend an event in your community, learn more about Aboriginal culture, and join in social-media activities using the hashtag #NADCanada. National Aboriginal Day also provides an opportunity for all Canadians to renew or build upon their relations with Indigenous peoples of Canada as we move forward on this journey of reconciliation.

Learning more about each other and celebrating together is the cornerstone of the Celebrate Canada period, which starts today with National Aboriginal Day, continues with Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24 and Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27, and ends with Canada Day on July 1.

I encourage all Canadians to take the time to share in the experience of National Aboriginal Day with friends and family, and take the time every day to promote respect, understanding and appreciation.

Take advantage of Celebrate Canada activities to come together in your communities, discover and appreciate the wealth and diversity of Canadian society, and show your pride in being Canadian.

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Contact Information:

Pierre-Olivier Herbert
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
819-997-7788