Today marks a historic day for Canada.  It was fifty years ago today that Prime Minister Diefenbaker extended the right to vote to all Aboriginal people in this country, a measure that was long overdue. 

I am very proud of my aboriginal heritage and think that all Canadians should take a moment to reflect on the significance of this anniversary.  Having the freedom to vote and choose who represents us is a fundamental right that all Canadians should cherish and take advantage of. 

Gaining the right to vote was a monumental step for us and has enabled us to continue to make significant steps for aboriginal people since.    Our Government is committed to continuing this movement.

In the recent Speech from the Throne, we committed to carrying this work forward, with additional work to promote the rights of aboriginal people, to promote infrastructure for aboriginal people, education, and child and family services.  In our Budgets we have backed up our words with funding that will better the lives of aboriginal people.

We want to ensure that all aboriginal people are full partners and have the full opportunities of Canadian Society.