Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you to the Premier for his eloquent words. Similarly, I will be speaking on the same. Mr. Speaker, next Tuesday we mark National Aboriginal Day in the NWT and across the country. Since the day was proclaimed by the Governor General 20 years ago, National Aboriginal Day has become an important celebration, a way for Canadians to honour the First Nations. Over those 20 years, Aboriginal communities across Canada have gathered yearly in celebration, pride, and respect. Sadly, too often non-Aboriginal Canadians don’t join in. Many don’t recognize that this is a Canadian holiday, not an Aboriginal one. That must change. Mr. Speaker, over those 20 years, some things have changed. Residential school victims received a prime-ministerial apology. The Idle No More movement brought Aboriginal issues to national attention and garnered significant mainstream support. Most notable is the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. While its process was painful for everyone involved, the Commission’s necessary work broke new ground. Its Calls to Action point the way for a healthier, more respectful future relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Canadians. I am proud that the government of the NWT moved quickly last year to respond to the TRC’s Calls to Action. The TRC report outlined many areas where relations can be improved. The NWT made its intentions clear in response. However, there is work to be done. Mr. Speaker, we can also take some pride in the NWT on what they have already done. Aboriginal languages are official languages here in the NWT. Our legislature sessions can be conducted in those languages. Our schools incorporate them. Our curriculum includes the residential school legacy, essential knowledge for us to bridge the gaps between us and build community. I am proud that the Northwest Territories leads the country by being the one jurisdiction in Canada where National Aboriginal Day is a full statutory holiday. I’m proud that I can work in this Assembly with my Aboriginal colleagues, with mutual respect and appreciation of our different heritage and cultures. The NWT leads the way for all Canadians to fully and respectfully partner with the Aboriginal nations in the Canada of the future. Mr. Speaker, the NWT should take the lead and formally campaign the federal government to finally declare National Aboriginal Day as a full national statutory holiday. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Masi. Members’ statements. Member for Kam Lake.
