Mr. Speaker, tomorrow at noon, the Kitigan Zibi community near Maniwaki will launch its annual powwow to the sound of beating drums.
The 30th annual Kitigan Zibi Traditional Pow Wow brings to Algonquin territory a time for celebration, reunion, healing and spiritual growth. It is where one will truly hear and see all the different types of dancing, singing and languages that make up first nation communities across Turtle Island.
I attend the powwow every year with my family so that I can meet up with friends and absorb more teachings about the Algonquin traditions. This year is going to be particularly special, since we have achieved a nationally significant milestone for reconciliation between Canada and Kitigan Zibi. We signed an historic memorandum of understanding on reconciliation, which includes a global settlement offer with over $116 million in compensation. With this deal, the Algonquin of Kitigan Zibi can invest to protect their endangered language and create new businesses and jobs that help develop our regional economy.
Improving this relationship between our government and the Algonquin of Kitigan Zibi is a top priority for me as an MP, and I love doing my work at the powwow.