Statement by Minister Carolyn Bennett to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Canada’s endorsement of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP)

OTTAWA, ONTARIO (November 12, 2015) – The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, issued the following statement today to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Canada’s endorsement of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples:

“On November 12, 2010, Canada joined other countries in supporting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. In doing so, Canada reaffirmed its commitment to promote and protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples at home and abroad. We will redouble our efforts across all Government departments, provinces and territories, municipalities and with all Canadians to fully understand and implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Achieving the goals of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples starts with supporting the work of reconciliation. We will continue the necessary process of truth telling and healing by working alongside First Nations, the Métis Nation, and Inuit, and with provinces and territories, to enact the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

As the Government of Canada acts upon its commitment to make genuine progress in the reconciliation and fulfillment of the rights of indigenous peoples, it will continue to work in partnership with other countries to promote the rights of Indigenous peoples around the world.”

For more information, please contact:
Media Relations
Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160

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