UN Indigenous declaration anniversary observed

National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo recently noted the Nov. 12 anniversary of Canada’s endorsement of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples falls next to Remembrance Day.
“It is quite appropriate that the anniversary of Canada’s endorsement of the UN Declaration falls so close to Remembrance Day,” Atleo said. “Our many veterans were and continue to be proud fighters for freedom and human rights. The achievement of the UN Declaration represents another critical step in this advocacy and effort for respect and human rights. Moving forward now, First Nations have increased opportunity to advance their rights and responsibilities and to achieve lasting change through justice and progress.”
Atleo said everyone has a clear role to play in ensuring respect for fundamental human rights, including international Indigenous human rights standards as set out in the United Nations Declaration.
“The UN Declaration compels both states and Indigenous peoples to work together in mutual partnership and respect,” Atleo said. “This creates a new context and the opportunity and conditions for First Nations peoples in this country to realize their full potential in all areas including education, health and the economy.”
Canada endorsed the UN Declaration one year ago, formally reversing its previous opposition. Following the endorsement of the UN Declaration, the AFN and First Nations have shifted focus from advocating for the UN Declaration to the work required to implement and move forward First Nation rights. These efforts have included extensive education and information campaigns.
Amnesty International Canada, Canadian Friends Service Committee (Quakers), Indigenous World Association and a number of First Nation organizations also called on the federal government to honour the standards in the UN Declaration, noting that while most people in Canada enjoy a quality of life that is the envy of the world, many Indigenous communities are faced with inadequate and overcrowded housing, unsafe drinking water and sub-standard schools.
The organizations said critical action is needed to live up to the standards affirmed by the UN Declaration, including making the recognition and protection of Indigenous peoples’ collective rights to lands and resources an explicit objective of federal policies; institutionalizing decision-making processes consistent with the constitutional duty of Aboriginal consultation, accommodation and consent, as affirmed by the Supreme Court of Canada; eliminating discrimination in the provision of government services to Indigenous people and communities; and establishing a comprehensive national plan of action to address the issues of violence against, disappearance and murder of Indigenous women and girls in Canada and ensure that they enjoy the full protection of the law.