FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 19, 1998Aboriginal Solidarity Day An Opportunity to Bring Aboriginal People, Working People Together
"Sadly, decade after decade Canadian governments have marginalized aboriginal people both economically and socially", says Audrey Cormack, President of the AFL. "Everyone committed to fairness in Canada should join with aboriginal communities in demanding economic and social justice for First Nations peoples." Cormack says, the AFL is proud to participate in Aboriginal Solidarity Day. "The labour movement has long been committed to working side by side with aboriginal peoples in fighting for recognition of the central and fundamental role their community plays in Canada." The day will be marked with events and celebrations around the country. The day was first declared by the Assembly of First Nations in 1982. Cormack is concerned about statistics that show that aboriginal suicide rates are five to eight times higher than the Canadian average. Unemployment among aboriginal people is two to three times higher than non-aboriginal Canadians. "It is clear all of us must take quick action to solve the crisis in our native communities," says Cormack. "One way is to promote the rich, vital culture that continues to thrive among aboriginal peoples. Reconnecting aboriginal youth with their history is an important first step." Cormack says, that the labour movement is committed to working with aboriginal communities every day on important issues. The AFL promises to continue lobbying federal and provincial governments to address the growing concerns of Canada's aboriginal peoples. "Aboriginal Solidarity Day is an important celebration, but the work of fighting for economic justice continues throughout the year," Cormack concluded.
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