In September of 2007, the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was adopted by the General Assembly with a majority of 144 states voting in favour, 11 abstentions and 4 votes against – Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Canada. The main reason for Canada's objector status was that then-Prime Minister Harper balked at the "free, prior and informed consent" clause especially when pertaining to natural resource development.

In May of this year, Canada ended our objector status and signed the Declaration. Prime Minister Trudeau believes the way forward is through consultation and mutual respect. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission has enjoined all Canadians to pay attention to the articles of the Declaration.

June 21st is National Aboriginal Day. There are events across the country. Locally, there will be a public reading on the steps of Owen Sound city hall at 4:00 pm. As one of the events locally, and in celebration, commitment and solidarity, we will read the 46 articles aloud. The event will likely take about 45 minutes.

Please come out and be a part of history as it unfolds. And, should you wish to add your voice, you will be most welcome to read one of the articles. They are fairly brief yet oh-so powerful.

source: media release