If you watched the National on CBC last night you witnessed acclaimed Canadian, Metis actor and singer, Tom Jackson, speaking on the occasion of the Recognition of Outstanding Indigenous Leadership. In keeping with the indigenous understanding of all our relations, Tom Jackson acknowledged the maple leaf as his sister pointing out the red leaf on our flag. He then poignantly asked the invited guests present, including the Governor General and the Prime Minister and their wives, to spend five minutes considering him to be their brother. Many in the audience were visibly moved by this moment of profound recognition of our mutual relationship.
National Aboriginal Day, celebrates the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis.
Tomorrow, in celebrating National Aboriginal Day, June 21. APTN (Aboriginal Peoples Television Network) is making broadcast history with its 7-hour live show uniting Canadians from coast to coast in Eight Cities, One Great Gathering.
APTN in its promotion of Aboriginal Day Live announced a live concert which will feature some of the most recognized entertainers in Aboriginal music and television, including the award-winning and those on the rise.
The eight cities hosting Aboriginal Day Live include Halifax, Ottawa, Toronto, Winnipeg, Yellowknife, Edmonton and Vancouver. Performers will appear on location and live on APTN. No other broadcaster has ever put together an event of this magnitude. I encourage you to watch on Wednesday, June 21 starting at 7 p.m. EST.
This is an excellent way to come to a better understanding and greater appreciation of our sisters and brothers and make a personal contribution to writing a new chapter in our common history.
Nancy Wales, CSJ