Statement - Minister Bennett Congratulates participants of "Imagine a Canada" National Art and Essay Competition for their Inspiring Work

OTTAWA, March 1, 2016 /CNW/ - The Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, Carolyn Bennett, issued the following statement today following a ceremony at Rideau Hall honouring participants of "Imagine a Canada", the national art and essay competition of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.

"On behalf of the Government of Canada, it is my pleasure to offer congratulations to both the recipients and all the participants of the "Imagine a Canada" national art and essay competition. Canada's youth play such a critical role in realizing reconciliation. This is a multigenerational journey that requires all Canadians, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, young and old, to be active participants. Through art, poetry, and essays, today's recipients are not just leading the way in imagining a future Canada , but are also actively working to make that future our reality.

All these beautiful and creative works are on display and accessible at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation in Winnipeg. I encourage each and every Canadian to visit the centre to view the submissions and learn more about the history of residential schools in Canada's past and visions of truth and reconciliation in Canada's future.

We should all be proud of Canada's youth, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, for inspiring and motivating all Canadians as we move into the next 150 years of our country.

Thank you to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the University of Manitoba for organizing this contest that sparked creative ideas on making Canada a better country for everyone through reconciliation and peace."

This statement is also available on the Internet at www.aandc.gc.ca.

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SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

Sabrina Williams, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, 819-997-0002; Media Relations, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160