Today marks the beginning of National Indigenous History Month.
In 2009, the House of Commons unanimously passed a law designating June as National Aboriginal History Month, in recognition of Indigenous Peoples' contributions to the building of Canada and the strength of our nation's Indigenous communities.
During National Indigenous History Month, Canadians are encouraged to take part in numerous activities that will take place across the country, including the festivities on National Indigenous Peoples Day, June 21. These are all great opportunities to showcase the unique heritage, cultures, traditions, worldview and remarkable achievements of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people.
Canada is proud to join with other nations around the world to mark UNESCO's International Year of Indigenous Languages in 2019, in order to highlight the critical challenges facing Indigenous languages and the urgent need to preserve, revitalize and promote them. In Canada, three out of four of the 90 living Indigenous languages are classified by UNESCO as endangered.
Indigenous languages contribute to the diversity and richness of Canada's linguistic and cultural heritage. They are an integral part of the reconciliation process. Our government is committed to reconciliation through a renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples, focused on rights, respect, trust, cooperation and partnership. With that in mind, we fully supported the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. In addition, we have implemented ten principles respecting the Government of Canada's relationship with Indigenous Peoples.
On February 5, I introduced Bill C-91, An Act Respecting Indigenous Languages, to reappropriate, revitalize, preserve and strengthen First Nations, Métis and Inuit languages. This is a historic milestone and a step toward healing and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism, I invite you to celebrate the vital role Indigenous Peoples play in building a better nation for Indigenous youth, their families, all Canadians and future generations. We have a collective duty, based on understanding and respect, to recognize and enforce the rights of Indigenous Peoples and to be open to Indigenous languages and cultures. Together, let's celebrate National Indigenous History Month!
