Canada should act on International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

National Union expresses concern over the refusal of the Harper government to support the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.

Ottawa (20 March 2008) - As March 21st – International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination – approaches, the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is once again calling on the Harper government to end it's opposition to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.

This years theme, Dignity and Justice - the Cornerstones of Combating Racial Discrimination, is one that must guide Canada's approach to addressing the immense historical injustice that was perpetrated on this country's First Nations people.

"We have seen some limited progress," notes national president James Clancy. "The steps towards addressing the past indignity and injustice endured by generations of First Nations children in residential schools is positive. While it will never erase this ugly period in our nation's history we can perhaps start moving forward."

The National Union believes much more needs to be done. The Canadian government needs to:

• finalize, in consultation with the Assembly of First Nations, the appointment of Commissioners to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission;
• issue an apology from the Canadian government to all former residential school students and their families; and
• endorse the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.

In particular, the National Union expresses concern over the refusal of the Harper government to support the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People. This represents a reversal from previous positions held by Canada at the UN.

"It really is outrageous," said Clancy. "Canada's opposition to the Declaration goes against the principles of justice, equality and fairness that this country is committed to upholding. Perhaps Prime Minister Harper could look to the example of the new Australian government for some true leadership and support the Declaration." NUPGE

More information:
UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples adopted