Local action planned for National Day of Reconciliation

JOINT NEWS RELEASE

GARDEN RIVER FIRST NATION

BATCHEWANA FIRST NATION

*************************** Garden River and Batchewana First Nation will stand to commemorate the National Day of Reconciliation on June 11, 2009

GARDEN RIVER FIRST NATION - On Thursday, June 11 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the four-lane and 17B bypass, Garden River and  Batchewana First Nation will engage community members in commemorating the anniversary of Canada’s apology for its treatment of children, parents and families as a result of the Indian Residential School System.

This National Day of Action will compose of a peaceful demonstration in conjunction with the Assembly of First Nations “National Day of Reconciliation” occurring across the country. 

This event will remind the government that the apology calls for the establishment of a new standard of behaviour toward Aboriginal people as stated by Prime Minister Stephen Harper on behalf of all Canadians exactly one year ago.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to learn more about the many issues faced by our communities and the achievements accomplished by First Nations across this country recognizing that cultural based and quality education is the key to eradicating the poverty conditions in our communities,” Chief Lyle Sayers of Garden River First Nation stated.

“In accordance to the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850, specific rights were negotiated on behalf of the Anishnabeg of this area and it is all of our responsibility to know what these rights are,” Chief Dean Sayers of Batchewana First Nation stated.

Both chiefs further stated: “Developing cultural based curriculum and establishing Shingwauk University would foster and bridge the huge gap of misunderstandings between Canadians and First Nations that have resulted from the residential school era.”

The governments of the Batchewana First Nation, Garden River First Nation and our invited guests welcome all Canadians and citizens of Ontario to join with us in this National Day of Reconciliation as we begin to heal the differences that have divided us.

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