e-Bulletin, Issue 20 - June 2012

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–A summary of recent announcements, opportunities and initiatives pertaining to AANDC–

In this issue, find updates on the Apology, National Aboriginal History Month, Claims, Education and Schools, Devolution, War of 1812, Natural Resources, Social Media and National Aboriginal Day.

The Apology

Fourth Anniversary of the Apology

On June 11, Minister Duncan recognized the fourth anniversary of the Prime Minister's Apology to former Indian Residential School Students, by unveiling artwork that will be translated into stained glass and installed in Centre Block on Parliament Hill. The artwork, by Métis artist Christi Belcourt  , commemorates the legacy of former Indian Residential School students and their families.  Read more about the stained glass window on AANDC's website and read the News Release.

National Aboriginal History Month

Celebrating National Aboriginal History Month

In June, Canadians celebrate National Aboriginal History Month, a month to recognize not only the historic contributions of Aboriginal peoples to the development of Canada, but also the strength of present-day First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities and their promise for the future. Learn more about National Aboriginal History Month on the AANDC website.

Claims

BC Treaty Process

On May 23, Minister Duncan met with the Principals in the BC treaty process, to engage with the First Nations Summit and the province of British Columbia in an ongoing dialogue about how to build greater momentum in negotiating treaties in BC. Read the News Release.

Education and Schools

Partnership Agreement to Promote the Success of Students of Member Communities of the First Nations Education Council of Quebec

On May 4, the governments of Canada and Quebec and the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador, on behalf of the First Nations Education Council of Quebec, signed an agreement to support and improve the academic success of First Nation students. Read the News Release.

Financial Contribution to the Odanak Student Residence Construction Project

On May 4, Minister Duncan announced a financial contribution of $307,500 to the Odanak community in support of its project to build student and teacher residences at Kiuna Institution, the First Nations Postsecondary Institution. Read the News Release.

Minister Duncan Congratulates St. Theresa Point First Nation on Opening of New School

On May 18, Minister Duncan joined the St. Theresa Point First Nation in the official opening of the community's new school facilities. The Department has invested $38 million in the planning, design and construction of two schools. The first, a grade 5-8 middle school, has 14 new classrooms. The second school, for junior kindergarten to grade 4, is an addition to the existing high school featuring 14 new classrooms, 4 kindergarten rooms and renovations to the existing high school. Read the News Release.

First Nation Student Success Program

Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada is proud to introduce the First Nation Student Success Program (FNSSP) Success Stories online publication which highlights many promising practices implemented through the support of the FNSSP. This program has helped educators in 472 schools on reserve to plan and improve education outcomes by focusing on the three priority areas of literacy, numeracy and student retention.

Devolution

Minister Duncan Appoints Chief Federal Negotiator for Nunavut Devolution

On May 18, Minister Duncan announced the appointment of Dale Drown as the Chief Federal Negotiator for Nunavut Devolution. He will engage with the Government of Nunavut, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and key stakeholders to examine options on how to achieve progress on the devolution of land and resource management responsibilities to the Government of Nunavut. Read the News Release.

War of 1812

Commemorative War of 1812 Medal

On May 22, Minister Duncan unveiled the commemorative War of 1812   medal, which will be presented to the 45 First Nation and Métis communities with a heritage linked to the War of 1812. Read the News Release.

Responsible Resource Development

Minister Duncan Highlights Importance of Responsible Resource Development for Jobs, Growth and Long-Term Prosperity

On June 4, the Government of Canada put the spotlight on the benefits of the government's plan for Responsible Resource Development to communities across the country, specifically job creation, growth and long-term prosperity that all Canadians can share in. Minister Duncan took the opportunity to outline the steps the government is taking to ensure that Canada's natural resources are developed in a way that contributes to continued economic growth and jobs while strengthening environmental protection. Read the News Release.

Social Media and National Aboriginal Day

National Aboriginal Day

National Aboriginal Day will soon be here! June 21 is a day for all Canadians to celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Canada. We wish you happy, safe and successful events during your 2012 National Aboriginal Day festivities. 'Share the Celebration' - Check out the NAD video on YouTube, photo collection on Flickr, and join the conversation on Twitter   for #NADCanada.

Changes to AANDC YouTube Channels

Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada has launched new YouTube channels to replace the previous INAC channels. If you have subscriptions, bookmarks, links or embedded videos pointing to the INAC channels, please update these to the new "AANDCanada" (English) and "AADNCanada" (French) channels today. All videos from the previous INAC channel have been moved to the new accounts. The INAC channel will be permanently closed at the end of November 2012. Visit the AANDC YouTube channel to check out community success stories from across Canada.

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