Aboriginal Awareness Week 2012
20th anniversary
May 22 – 25, 2012
Please join us as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Aboriginal Awareness Week from May 22 to 25, 2012. Aboriginal Awareness Week was first introduced in 1992 with the purpose of increasing awareness of Aboriginal peoples and cultures within the Canadian mosaic and the public service. Since that time, it has evolved and grown into a government-wide celebration giving federal public servants from across Canada the opportunity to participate in a week of activities that highlight the unique and diverse Aboriginal cultures in Canada; including Métis, Inuit and First Nations.
This year’s theme is”Looking back, moving forward”. Throughout the week, special activities and events will build Aboriginal awareness by showcasing historic and contemporary Aboriginal contributions to Canadian society and culture.
Work is well underway for interdepartmental events in the National Capital Region, including opening and closing ceremonies hosted by Parks Canada. This year’s opening ceremony is being held at the Agora Hall, Les Terrace De La Chaudière , Gatineau on May 22nd starting at 11:45 a.m. and the closing ceremony at the Museum of Civilisation on May 25th starting at 11:45 a.m. Elder Peter DeContie will open the ceremonies by welcoming people on the Algonquin territory.
In “Looking back, moving forward”, we pause to reflect upon the many historical events and contemporary circumstances in which diverse Aboriginal peoples have made notable contributions to Canada’s national development. These range from the contributions of Aboriginal peoples to the successful defence of British North America during the War of 1812 and the participation of Aboriginal persons in Canada’s later war efforts, to the unique contributions of Aboriginal artists, creators and innovators in all fields by forging a distinct Canadian identity that is recognized and respected around the world. By “Looking back, moving forward”, we share glimpses into who we are as a country and the experiences we have shared to get to this place.
Aboriginal Awareness Week is therefore an opportunity for understanding and appreciating the many contributions Aboriginal peoples have made, and continue to make, to our uniquely Canadian way of life. You are encouraged to participate in “Looking back, moving forward”, to celebrate our richness and diversity, and in this way, connect our hearts and minds as Canadians.