Mr. Speaker, May 21 to 24 is Aboriginal Awareness Week. It was originally intended to increase awareness of aboriginal peoples and their culture within Canada's public service, but it has grown to become a workplace initiative that many employers are taking up as a tool to encourage reconciliation.
The first Aboriginal Awareness Week was held in 1992. It is now a Canada-wide celebration that encourages interactive activities to honour the diverse cultures and traditions of first nations, Inuit and Metis peoples in Canada. The theme this year is “Celebrating the Contributions of Aboriginal Peoples”.
I think it is appropriate to take a moment to acknowledge two individuals who have both contributed to the work we do in this place.
Elijah Harper passed away last week, but not before he inspired a generation of activists by insisting that aboriginal peoples be consulted on constitutional changes. Elder Bertha Commonda of Kitigan Zibi also passed away this weekend. Her quiet presence at events around Ottawa helped all participants come together in a good way. She will be missed.