I am proud to stand with Canadians from across the country and join First Nations, Metis, Inuit and people in celebrating National Aboriginal Day.

First Nations, Inuit & Métis people come from many nations and cultures, and face different issues. But as I visit their communities, two points keep coming into focus: first, all face challenges unseen elsewhere. There are barriers of distance and access, daily problems unimagined in other communities; problems that for too long have been ignored by governments. Yet, second, the incredible spirit of the people persists. Hope never seems to yield to despair, people always believe that tomorrow must be better than today. It is for these people, for their children, that we’re committed to making change happen.

Exactly two years ago, we witnessed a landmark event. I have never felt more proud to stand in Parliament as a heartfelt apology was issued by the Canadian government regarding the devastating legacy of the Indian Residential Schools. No apology can reverse 150 years of discrimination and neglect. But that apology was a momentous first step.

Nobody believes that the challenges before us are easy, or that the effort required to overcome them is modest. But together, we’re deepening our understanding of the steps we can take to build a better future.

New Democrats are proud to forge a new partnership, to foster economic opportunity, to fight discrimination, and to work on healing the past.

All the best on National Aboriginal Day.