Indigeneous Peoples of West Yellowhead Alberta
201 Rispler Way T7C 1L8 Hinton, AB, Canada

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SPEAKING NOTES ERIC ROSENDAHL MLA FOR WEST YELLOWHEAD CANADA 150 CELEBRATIONS CANADA 150 CELEBRATION... JASPER, ALBERTA Good morning! It is great to be here with all of you in this momentous year, marking the 150th anniversary of confederation. I’m pleased to bring greetings on behalf of Premier Rachel Notley and my colleagues with the Alberta NDP Caucus. I would also like to recognize representatives from the Town of Jasper, the Jasper Chamber of Commerce, Parks Canada and all of the other hard working people who have made this event possible today. One hundred and fifty years ago today the Constitution Act of 1867 was passed. As we gather here on the traditional territory of the indigenous peoples of West Yellowhead. We recognize that the history of this land goes back much further for Indigenous Peoples. For this region, this does not include the signing of any treaties or the creation of any Indian Reserves under the Canadian Indian Act, or any indigenous settlements under any other federal or provincial statute. The indigenous peoples of this region have yet to achieve any status or recognition but their contributions to the creation of communities should be celebrated. Our government has made a commitment to developing meaningful and ongoing relationships with Indigenous people in Alberta. A big part of that relationship comes from understanding Indigenous history, and from learning about the diverse cultures practiced throughout Alberta. Let Canada 150, this year especially, be a time to learn, connect, celebrate and appreciate the road travelled thus far and look forward to the future with pride working with all Canadians. In view of these commitments by our government, we need take this opportunity to work cooperatively across all levels of government. This will ensure that this regions indigenous populations are recognized and included appropriately. As a nation, we have been through so much together. We have made countless contributions to every field of human endeavor we have incorporated into our constitution one of the most progressive Charters of Rights and Freedoms anywhere in the world we have grown in depth, breadth and number through welcoming new Canadians from around the world. In return, our nation has given us a place to thrive. A place characterized by compassion and respect. A country dedicated to a system of governance that ensures the democratic will of the people is respected. while providing safeguards for the most vulnerable among us. Canada is one of the best places in the world to work, live and recreate. It is our happy responsibility to make Alberta, and Canada as a whole, a better place to live for everyone in the years ahead. This is how we show our gratitude for those who helped build Canada before us. How we show our respect and care for those who will come after us. On Canada Day we celebrate all that has made this nation great! We regonize our achievements and re-commit to building a better society and future for all Canadians. Thank you all for being here today to show your pride in Canada and in Alberta. May we continue to create lasting connections that will live long after the celebrations have ended. Happy Canada Day!