Prime Minister Stephen Harper failed to mention the recently released Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s report in his message marking National Aboriginal Day today, while the opposition New Democratic Party acknowledged the document and vowed to work towards reconciliation.

“Our Government is committed to building strong First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities,” Harper said in his message. “That is why over the past few years through both our economic action plans and legislation we have made significant contributions to education and training, community infrastructure – including healthcare and water treatment facilities – land claims, matrimonial rights, financial transparency, and emergency preparedness.”

“Indigenous peoples are the backbone and motivators behind much of the essential environmental and social justice activism that exists in Canada today,” Official Opposition Aboriginal Affairs critic Niki Ashton MP (Churchill) said in the official message from her party. “The NDP is committed to building a strong nation-to-nation relationship with Indigenous peoples based on real cooperation and meaningful consultation that respects Inherent Aboriginal rights.”

“This year we also acknowledge the landmark report by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission,” she added. “We stand with Indigenous peoples and commit to healing and reconciliation.”

National Aboriginal Day is a day to recognize the contributions of First Nations and for all Canadians to commit to reconciliation and closing the gap in the quality of life between First Nations and Canadians.

“National Aboriginal Day is an opportunity for First Nations and Canadians to join together and celebrate First Nations peoples, languages and cultures,” Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde said. “Just two weeks ago Canadians had their eyes opened by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s report. We ask all Canadians to open their minds and hearts as well and consider their role in reconciliation and the work we need to do together to close the gap in the quality of life between First Nations and Canadians.”

National Aboriginal Day was marked with feasts, festivals, concerts, cultural gatherings and ceremonies across Canada, with the National Chief encouraging everyone to participate in events and for non-Indigenous Canadians to use this as an opportunity to learn more about First Nations peoples and issues.

“We have a shared history and a shared responsibility to our shared future,” said National Chief Bellegarde. “Our original relationship is based on peaceful coexistence and mutual respect – to jointly benefit from sharing the land and resource wealth of this great country. Those values should guide the way forward. On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations and the National Executive, I want to wish everyone a festive and celebratory National Aboriginal Day.”

[Photo Credit: Truth and Reconciliation Commission]