June 21, 2020
Statement from Indigenous and Northern Relations Minister Eileen Clarke on Indigenous Peoples Day
As the minister of Indigenous and northern relations, I would like to acknowledge June 21 as National Indigenous People’s Day in Canada, and encourage Manitobans to celebrate and recognize the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of Indigenous peoples.
Manitoba is the proud home of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Inuit, Dene and Dakota people, as well as the Métis Nation, and National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to learn about Indigenous cultures.
Along with the sharing of cultural and historical experiences, National Indigenous Peoples Day is also a time to acknowledge our continued path toward reconciliation with all Indigenous peoples in Manitoba and across Canada. We are making great strides toward reconciliation and teaching Indigenous perspectives in our workplaces, schools and governments, but we must continue to grow in our understanding of the treaties, Indigenous history and traditions.
We also commend the courage and action shown by Manitoba’s Indigenous leadership in keeping their communities and people safe during COVID-19, and urge all Manitobans to continue to heed the advice of our chief provincial public heath officer.
The Government of Canada is encouraging Canadians to celebrate this year's National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day at home to keep communities safe during the COVID-19 crisis.
More information about National Indigenous Peoples Day is available at:
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