OTTAWA – LEADERS LEDGER – Each year, National Aboriginal Day provides us with an opportunity to honour and to celebrate the many rich and varied cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Doing so reminds us that the story of Canada-one of diverse peoples, striving to live together in peace and harmony-began with the Aboriginal experience.
I strongly believe that diversity is one of Canada’s greatest strengths. As the earliest Canadian settlers quickly realized, the cultures and traditions of Aboriginal peoples represent a great source of learning and wisdom. Though our circumstances today have changed considerably, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Canadians alike continue to learn a great deal from one another. This is as it should be, because our greatest potential lies in what we have yet to learn.
As governor general, I have been privileged to meet with Aboriginal peoples in communities across Canada. As with our past and present, our future in this land will be shared. On this and every day, I encourage all Canadians to celebrate Aboriginal peoples and cultures for all that they add to our country.
David Johnston
Governor General of Canada
National Aboriginal Day is celebrated every year on June 21.