Statement on Indigenous history month

June 1, 2024

QUEEN'S PARK — Ontario Greens Deputy Leader Aislinn Clancy released the following statement to mark National Indigenous History Month.

“On National Indigenous History Month, we honour the legacy, heritage and resilience of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Ontario and Canada.
As we do so, we must also reckon with the reality of Canada’s colonial past and present, including the discrimination and violence that Indigenous peoples continue to face today.
It shows up in every corner of our society. In lack of access to clean drinking water in dozens of communities across the country, for instance. Or in the systemic racism embedded in our medical, policing and education systems.
As we commemorate National Indigenous History Month, Greens reaffirm our call for the provincial government to:

• Provide funding to support Indigenous-led searches for lost children at each residential school site in the province;
• Legislate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day) as a statutory holiday in Ontario; and
• Fully implement all provincial calls outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action

We need actions, not just words. We need a full commitment to combat the systemic racism and colonialism still present in our society as we work toward reconciliation.
This month, I also want to express my deepest gratitude to the Indigenous peoples who have cared for the land, the water, the plants and animals and people who live here.
As provincial leaders, we have so much to learn from Indigenous teachings on stewardship, sustainability and community.
During Indigenous History Month, I hope you’ll join me in celebrating Indigenous communities and histories across Turtle Island. But let’s also commit to addressing systemic racism, colonialism and inequity as we work toward a more just future for all.”

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