Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on National Aboriginal Day

June 21, 2011

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark National Aboriginal Day:

“Today we honour and celebrate Aboriginal peoples in Canada on this, the 15th anniversary of National Aboriginal Day.

“In addition to their remarkable art and culture, which continue to be an integral part of Canadian identity, Aboriginal peoples make enormous contributions to this country every day in all areas of endeavour. Today represents an opportunity to recognize their vast contributions and their key role in ensuring our future prosperity.

“Our Government is committed to working with Aboriginal communities, as well as provinces and territories, to provide Aboriginal people with the education and tools they need to reach their full potential and achieve a higher quality of life for their families.

“Substantial investments benefiting Aboriginal peoples continue to be made through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, in such areas as housing, health, child and family services, and education. Moving forward, we will also continue to implement our Northern Strategy which will benefit Aboriginal people living in these regions of the country.

“Our Government is also working with the Assembly of First Nations on the new Canada-First Nations Joint Action Plan to improve the lives of First Nation people across Canada.

“Together, we will address the barriers to social and economic participation that many Inuit, Métis and First Nations peoples face. We will work to ensure Aboriginal people have the same benefits and rights as their fellow Canadians.

“I encourage all Canadians to take part in the National Aboriginal Day celebrations being held across the country.”