Mr. Speaker, on National Aboriginal Day, we commemorate the fundamental role first nations, Inuit and Métis played in the shared history of Canada. We recognize how historic injustices have contributed to unacceptable gaps in outcomes for health, education, housing and access to basic services like safe drinking water.
Today, we must reflect on the words of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. It states:
Canadians have been denied a full and proper education as to the nature of Aboriginal societies, and the history of the relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples. .
If we want to move forward in a spirit of partnership, respect and co-operation, all Canadians must be given the opportunity to learn more about the historical basis of these relationships.
On National Aboriginal Day, we must commit to a new nation-to-nation relationship based on consultation and collaboration to ensure a more prosperous common future.