OTTAWA – Kenora MP Greg Rickford was up in the House of Commons on Thursday for a Member’s Statement:
Mr. Speaker, on this, my first occasion to rise in the House in this session, I want to thank the constituents of the great Kenora riding for re-electing me. I will continue to be a strong voice for Kenora in this government.
Three years ago, on Wednesday, June 11, the Prime Minister stood in the House and asked for forgiveness from aboriginal peoples for Canada’s role in the Indian residential school system. This apology was an historic event and was a significant step toward reconciliation with aboriginal peoples.
We will continue to work closely with former students, their families and their communities to build a new relationship based on the knowledge of our shared past and renewed respect for each other.
This anniversary is an opportunity for all Canadians to remember and reflect on the lessons taken from the Indian residential school experience.
We must all renew our commitment to work together to build a better future and to make a meaningful and sustainable improvement in the lives of aboriginal people throughout Canada.