“I am here to announce on behalf of Canada, that we are now a full supporter of the Declaration, without qualification,” Minister Bennett stated. “We intend nothing less than to adopt and implement the Declaration in accordance with the Canadian Constitution. By adopting and implementing the Declaration, we are breathing life into section 35 and recognizing it as full box of rights for Indigenous peoples.”
Minister Bennett spoke to how the full adoption of UNDRIP will fit into a concrete roadmap to reconcile with Indigenous peoples in Canada:
“What does all of this mean for Canada now? It means nothing less than a full engagement on how to move forward with adoption and implementation, done in full partnership with First Nations, the Métis Nation and Inuit Peoples.”
MNC President Chartier addressed the Forum and expressed his appreciation for the Trudeau government’s commitment to fully engage with the Métis Nation in the upcoming reconciliation process. He also encouraged the Canadian government to support the American Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples being considered by the Organization of American States.
Download Minister Bennett statement (PDF)
l-r: Indigenous Affairs Minister Carolyn Bennett, MNC President Clément Chartier, Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations Ambassador Marc-André Blanchard
President Chartier and Métis Elder Oliver Boulette
MNC President Clément Chartier and ITK President Natan Obed
UN side event on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
Senator Nick Sibbeston and Métis Elder Oliver Boulette performing at Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations
