National Aboriginal Day

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First proclaimed in 1996, National Aboriginal Day on June 21 is a day of celebration where all nations within Canada recognize the important contributions that the First Peoples (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) have made to Canada.

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The Canadian Union of Public Employees encourages all members to celebrate National Aboriginal Day around Sunday June 21.  First Peoples and many of our locals across the country have events planned to celebrate this important day. 

While June 21 is a day of celebration, we must not forget that governments and the corporate interests they serve have not taken into consideration the deplorable conditions faced by First Peoples. This is different than CUPE’s approach or First Peoples themselves who care about serving their community and supporting their families.

First Peoples communities across Canada are currently involved in actions aimed at increasing Canadians’ awareness of the issues.  Many Aboriginal peoples live and work in conditions that are below any acceptable standard for a civilized country. Governments have failed to provide for the basic necessities such as safe water, health care and economic sustainability for many communities. The inability of governments to recognize that these necessities are fundamental rights of citizenship has led to many frustrations.

CUPE stands firm in our commitment to further First Peoples rights. We will continue to fight for equality, justice, full inclusion and the right to self-government. We call on all governments to respect treaties and the agreed-to and inherent rights of First Peoples.

Join us as we celebrate National Aboriginal Day, a special day to celebrate the unique heritage, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in Canada.