OTTAWA, Aug. 9, 2012 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo today acknowledged the United Nations International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, highlighting the need for and benefits of political and economic participation of Indigenous peoples here in Canada and around the globe.
"On a day that we celebrate the cultures, traditions and languages of Indigenous peoples around the world, we recognize the important shared histories and experiences of all Indigenous peoples globally and the importance of our rights and responsibilities to environmental sustainability and the planet's survival now and in the future," said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo. "First Nations across Canada continue to press the federal government to work with us to advance the standards articulated in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples which set out a guide for respecting and implementing Indigenous rights, responsibilities and jurisdiction to achieve self-governance, environmental and economic sustainability and self-sufficiency through mutual respect and partnership. We join our voices in full support and encouragement to all Indigenous peoples in their efforts and their particular struggles to achieve these goals."
The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is commemorated annually on August 9 in recognition of the first meeting of the United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Populations held in Geneva in 1982. The International Day was first proclaimed by the General Assembly in December 1994.
This year's theme, "Indigenous Media, Empowering Indigenous Voices", speaks to the importance of Indigenous media and Indigenous voices in challenging stereotypes, and aims to help forge Indigenous identities and effective communication to influence the social and political agenda.
Check out the live web cast of a special event at UN Headquarters in New York today featuring speakers and videos from Indigenous media organizations at http://webtv.un.org/. You can also follow regular updates on Twitter at #UNIndigenousDay.
The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter at @AFN_Updates @AFN_Comms.
SOURCE: ASSEMBLY OF FIRST NATIONS
Jenna Young, Assembly of First Nations Communications Officer 613-241-6789, ext 401 or cell: 613-314-8157 or e-mail [email protected]
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