(June 21, 2024 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa) – Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak is celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day today, which has been recognized annually since a 1996.
In 1982, the National Indian Brotherhood (now the Assembly of First Nations) first suggested establishing National Aboriginal Solidarity Day as a day of recognition. In 1990, Quebec became the first province or territory to establish June 21 as a day to celebrate Indigenous culture.
“National Indigenous Peoples Day is an important part of both National Indigenous History Month and the year as a whole,” said National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. “It serves as a reminder to uplift our rich First Nations cultures, traditions, languages, and ceremonies. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on the longstanding issues First Nations face, and the need to work in collaboration with all levels of government to address these gaps.”
“Today also marks the anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act receiving Royal Assent two years ago,” continued National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “While we acknowledge this milestone, we must recognize the long road ahead in fully implementing this Act. We urge the federal government to strengthen its commitment to ensuring the principles and rights enshrined in this Act are fully realized.”
“In addition to the Act, we must remember the other critical roadmaps that exist for governments, industries and all Canadians to advance reconciliation. These roadmaps include the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report, as well as the 231 Calls to Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Final Report. We encourage everyone become familiar with these texts, and to participate in activities that promote learning and understanding and advance First Nations priorities forward in a spirit of reconciliation, inclusivity, and partnership. Our hope is that today will inspire reflection, education, and action across Turtle Island.”
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
Contact information:
Jamie Monastyrski
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(613) 612-7229 (mobile)
[email protected]
Kelly Reid
Senior Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
(613) 292-0857 (mobile)
[email protected]