June becomes National Aboriginal History Month with unanimous passing of bill in parliament
Press release ...
JUNE IS NOW NATIONAL ABORIGINAL HISTORY MONTH
New Democrat Crowder’s motion passes unanimously after two year struggle
OTTAWA, JUNE 4, 2009 – MPs cheered today after a motion from New Democrat Jean Crowder (Nanaimo-Cowichan) received unanimous consent declaring June as National Aboriginal History Month.
“We need to recognize the enormous contribution that First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples have made to Canada. Declaring June National Aboriginal History Month is one small step,” said Crowder.
Two provinces, Saskatchewan and Alberta, already celebrate June as Aboriginal History Month.
“I first introduced a motion on Aboriginal History Month two years ago,” said Crowder. “The Regina Aboriginal Professionals Association got the ball rolling by convincing the Saskatchewan government to recognize the month. This will be the third year it is celebrated there.
“Many communities already celebrate National Aboriginal Day on June 21st,” said Crowder. “Now I hope they plan more events to celebrate the history of Aboriginal peoples in their area and across Canada.”
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For more information, please contact:
Office of Jean Crowder, 613-943-2181
Jesse Brady, Media Officer, 613-944-9372