NDP statement on the UN International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

NDP Critic for Indigenous and Northern Affairs, Romeo Saganash (Abitibi-Baie James-Nunavik-Eeyou) and MP Georgina Jolibois (Desnethé-Missinippi-Churchill River), made the following statement on the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples:

This year, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples marksthe 10th anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The Declaration represents an important human rights instrument that articulates the rights of Indigenous Peoples and the minimum standards for their survival, dignity and well-being.

“This recognition is necessary for reconciliation, and a renewed and sincere nation-to-nation relationship. We can’t change the past; however, we can be honest and educate ourselves so that history does not repeat itself. Through a sense of hope, we can develop a path forward together, as our ancestors intended. Honouring the letter, spirit and intent of the Declaration is the responsibility every Canadian” said Jolibois.

Trudeau talks about re-establishing a “nation-to-nation” relationship with Indigenous Peoples in Canada. However, the Liberal government continues to violate the Constitution and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms by denying the same human rights standards for First Nations children that others enjoy.

New Democrats have built strong relationships with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and work continually to echo their priorities and perspectives in the House of Commons so that their message is heard daily by all Members. We value social responsibility in global affairs and we know to include indigenous rights in our relations with other states. We will continue to hold the Canadian government accountable to Indigenous Peoples.

“We must continue in our policies and actions to ensure that the Government of Canada is guided by the values of meaningful consultation, respect for inherent and treaty rights, the wisdom of Indigenous elders as well as the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” Saganash emphasized.