Aboriginal Solidarity Day - June 21, 2009

Meeting Aboriginal people on the path to reconciliation

A message from BCGEU President Darryl Walker:

Aboriginal Solidarity Day, June 21, was declared by the federal government in 1996 after more than 12 years of lobbying by activists in the National Indian Brotherhood (now known as the Assembly of First Nations). It was intended as a day to recognize and honour aboriginal peoples in our country.

We support the Assembly of First Nations suggesting that what is really required is a National Day of Reconciliation between aboriginal and non-aboriginal peoples in our country.

Certainly the road to reconciliation remains long. The federal government continues to ignore its responsibility for properly funding health care and education. Much aboriginal housing on reserve is sub-standard and many homes are dangerously over-crowded. In recent months, the H1N1 virus has hit some aboriginal communities very hard--clear evidence of the enduring poverty and compromised health of people living in these communities across the country.

We have taken some steps forward. Native activist Sharon McIvor, successfully convinced the courts to end discrimination in rules on awarding "Indian status" to women and their children. The federal government has reappointed the chair and commissioners of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the work of the commission will help bring to light and resolve the experiences of aboriginal peoples in the residential school system. Leaders of B.C.'s First Nations also had an historic meeting with Pope Benedict XVI to discuss the responsibility of the church for abuses in Canada's Catholic residential schools. Last June the federal government finally apologized for the abuse and suffering caused by the residential school system.

As a union we have continued efforts to support the work of our aboriginal members and first nations in the community. We supported the McIvor court case, the Memorial Women's March, the 8,000 Sacred Drums ceremony in Vancouver and the Walk4Justice. Our union has also long recognized the right of First Nations to self government and self determination, and we have actively supported treaty negotiations. And we represent hundreds of aboriginal workers in government and in agencies across B.C.

The National Assembly of First Nations will meet in convention in late July in Calgary, and will elect a new leadership. I know you will join me in extending best wishes to the delegates, to outgoing Chief Phil Fontaine, and to new leader who will be elected there.

I also want to encourage BCGEU members this weekend to show your support for aboriginal people by taking part in Aboriginal Solidarity Day activities on June 21.

Click here for a schedule of events.