AFN National Chief Marks International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples

OTTAWA, Aug. 9 /CNW Telbec/ - Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo marked August 9, the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, by calling on Canada to endorse the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and to work with First Nations peoples to implement the Declaration.

"The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is a time for all Canadians and people around the globe to celebrate the many accomplishments and contributions of the world's more than 370 million Indigenous peoples," National Chief Atleo said. "The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is one such contribution, borne out of the hard work and dedication of Indigenous citizens, leaders and representatives. Canada, to its credit, committed to endorsing the Declaration in the Speech from the Throne in March. We look forward to working with the government to implement the U.N. Declaration and we feel this should happen in the very near future."

The U.N. established August 9 as the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples in December 1994 as part of the International Decade of the World's Indigenous People. The U.N. Assembly proclaimed a Second International Decade in 2004. The U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was passed in 2007.

"The U.N. Declaration and its principles of reconciliation and partnership can guide the work that is required between First Nations and Canada. It will set the minimum standards for full, respectful engagement and mutually acceptable resolution on all the matters before us, consistent with the standards established in the Declaration," the National Chief stated. "Today, I send a statement of support and solidarity with Indigenous peoples around the world."

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

For further information: Alain Garon, Bilingual Communications Officer, Assembly of First Nations, 613-241-6789 ext. 382, cell: 613-292-0857 or [email protected]