National Aboriginal Day

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June 21, 2016

Message from the Governor General of Canada 
on the Occasion of National Aboriginal Day

OTTAWA— As we mark the 20th anniversary of National Aboriginal Day, I believe that we still have much to learn about the first peoples of this vast land.

This past May, my wife, Sharon, and I met with many residents of Aboriginal communities in the Hudson Bay region. It was with great interest that we listened to their stories of life and learning in that extraordinary part of the country.

Today, we are in Brantford, Ontario, to visit the Woodland Cultural Centre, formerly a residential school, to better measure the impact that such institutions have had on Aboriginal peoples. As honorary witnesses for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, Sharon and I recognize the importance of maintaining a reconciliation process that will lead to improved relations between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Canadians.

This day is an opportunity to celebrate the incredible cultural diversity, ancestral heritage and significant achievements of Aboriginal peoples.

David Johnston

-30-

 National Aboriginal Day is celebrated every year on June 21.

Media information:
Marie-Ève Létourneau
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-0287
marie-eve.letourneau@gg.ca

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