Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to speak about an important day to all aboriginal people and Northerners, June 21st, National Aboriginal Day. Last year was the first time that National Aboriginal Day was celebrated as a statutory holiday in the Northwest Territories.
There is some history to National Aboriginal Day, Mr. Speaker. In 1982 the National Indian Brotherhood proposed that June 21st be a national aboriginal solidarity day. It was not until 1996 that it was declared a national celebration by the former governor general, His Excellency, the Right Honourable Romeo Leblanc.
To date, the Northwest Territories is the only jurisdiction to recognize National Aboriginal Day as a statutory holiday. I am very proud to be a Member of the legislature that worked to pass the National Aboriginal Day Act as it gives recognition to aboriginal peoples and the diversity of their culture and heritage. Recognition of the rich culture and heritage of the Dene, Metis and Inuvialuit is important for this country and for our territory.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud to report that last year's celebrations across the Northwest Territories were a huge success. Communities across the North showcased pride in their culture through a range of events such as traditional games, drum dances and cultural displays. This year aboriginal peoples and their culture will again be recognized and celebrated June 21st. I ask all Members to join me in encouraging the people of the Northwest Territories to participate in National Aboriginal Day activities in their communities.
I would also like to take this opportunity to say thank you to the many volunteers who have helped plan National Aboriginal Day events like canoe racing, traditional games, fishing derbies, music, artwork, scavenger hunts and storytelling. Mr. Speaker, not only has this holiday become a celebration for aboriginal people, it is also a celebration for non-aboriginal people across the country. As Governor General Adrienne Clarkson said, it is an opportunity for all of us to celebrate our respect and admiration for First Nations, the Inuit, the Metis, for the past, the present and the future.
Mr. Speaker, I hope we can join together to make June 21st a successful date. Thank you.
---Applause