Email PM Trudeau
The role Indigenous peoples played in founding Canada
Indigenous people have not received recognition for their contributions to building Canada. The idea that our nation was founded exclusively by the British and French is harmful, unfair and incomplete.
The Indigenous peoples of Canada were the first to govern this land. They were on this land for thousands of years before Confederation and played a pivotal role in the founding of Canada.
A country cannot be built on an incomplete history. Now is the time to effect change.
Now is the time to protect and promote Indigenous languages, cultures, history and traditions.
Now is the time to respect the inherent right of Indigenous peoples to develop, maintain and strengthen their relationship with their lands and waters.
Now is the time to complete the story of our nation.
Now is the time for Canadians to stand up and turn recognition into action.
AFN
Assembly of First Nations
“In 1996, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples observed, ‘A country cannot be built on a living lie.’ Now is the time, during the Canada 150 activities, to complete the story. The government should adopt legislation that acknowledges that Indigenous peoples are a founding nation of Canada. It’s time for the government to take action and make specific commitments to right this wrong. It’s time to turn recognition to action."
About your nation
About Recognition2Action
Recognition2Action is a civic engagement campaign started in 2017 to educate people about the role Indigenous peoples played in founding Canada.
The idea that Canada was founded by the British and French is incomplete. Indigenous peoples were here long before both and should be recognized as at least equal founders of this nation.
In 1996, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples observed, “A country cannot be built on a living lie.”
Now is the time to complete the story.
We are calling on the federal government to adopt legislation that acknowledges Indigenous peoples as one of the founders of Canada. It’s time for the government to take action and make specific commitments to right this wrong. It’s time to turn recognition into action
This project is being carried out in collaboration with a broad network of Indigenous and Non-Indigenous organizations and individuals who have articulated statements of support.
How you can help
Individuals can:
Email the Prime Minister
Message your MP
Show your support on social media
Community groups, businesses or organizations can:
Join our network and pledge support and solidarity