SUDBURY – Ontario Regional Chief Isadore Day celebrated National Aboriginal Day by calling for a new era of social justice and hope for First Nations.
“National Aboriginal Day is an opportunity to celebrate the amazing contributions that Indigenous peoples have made to Canada and that young Indigenous women and men are continuing to make today,” said Regional Chief Day. “Following the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, today is also an occasion to reflect on how we move forward to create a new era of social justice and hope for Indigenous peoples.”
National Aboriginal Day was celebrated across Canada Sunday. The day was first celebrated in 1996 after being proclaimed by then Governor General Roméo LeBlanc.
This past week, Chiefs of Ontario held its annual All Ontario Chiefs Conference under the theme of “Strengthening our Relationships.” Regional Chief Day says that relationships are at the core of National Aboriginal Day.
“I am proud that all peoples living in Canada are coming together to celebrate the resiliency and strength of indigenous peoples,” said Regional Chief Day. “Coming together is in the spirit and intent of our Treaties. Today is a day to remember that we are all Treaty partners.”
Ontario Regional Chief Day celebrated National Aboriginal Day at the “Aboriginals Got Talent” event hosted by the N’swakamok Native Friendship Centre in Sudbury, Ontario.