Aboriginal Day

This year Aboriginal Day was celebrated right across from coast ,to coast ,to coast. It was a celebration for the first nations who have been fighting to gain status within Canada for decades. I realize that for many Canadians the aboriginal question is one of the most misunderstood problems we have. Here we have well over one million people who have survived terrible hardships at the hands of their conquerors who seized their lands and placed them on reservations which in many cases could not support their way of life.

The government who for years under the Indian Act were obliged to take care of them neglected their duty and left the people in dire straights. Inadequate housing, dirty drinking water, little health care and a school system which was not supported to the level of other Canadians. To say employment was a problem would be a joke as there was little opportunity for work on the reservations.

There were notable exceptions as some communities have flourished. The reason is all about the answers to the aforementioned problems. The aboriginal communities which received the proper care did very well. I have lived in aboriginal communities and have seen first hand just what the potential is for an intelligent work force. Our first nations hold a potential for great economic benefits. The government is bringing in hundreds of thousands of migrant workers but look right past our potential workers in Canada.

Where the opportunity comes the aboriginal workers are quick learners as is seen in the diamond industry and the oil patch where they have fared out very well. All that is needed is a level playing field. Canada has to address this situation in a positive manner as the fastest growing segment of our population is the aboriginal community. Canada has a challenge and I am sure the right government program could help solve it. Aboriginal day was a great success with great talent shown right across Canada.