September 30, 2024

FREDERICTON - Today on a National Day for Truth & Reconciliation, Green Party leader David Coon issued the following statement: 

“Truth and Reconciliation Day is a time to remember the cultural genocide perpetrated on Indigenous people in Canada by the Indian Residential School system. It is a significant opportunity for all New Brunswickers to learn about the history and legacy of residential schools, while honouring survivors, their families and communities.

As elected political leaders we need to take action in pursuit of  reconciliation. My deputy leaders and I have routinely met with and listened to traditional and elected First Nations leaders, including a recent meeting with Mi’kmaq Chiefs earlier this month.  A Green government’s relationship withFirst Nations will be  based on mutual respect and cooperation, as the treaties intended.  I hope that everyone who is able, takes the time to attend events in their communities today.”

Today, the Green Party released the full Truth & Reconciliation plank of its platform, committing to:

• Fully implement the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the calls to action of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
• Commission an Indigenous-led, independent public inquiry into the New Brunswick justice and policing systems to uncover systemic racism against Indigenous peoples and how to correct it.
• Enter into partnership agreements with First Nations for the stewardship of Crown lands.
• Restore all place names containing racist terminology against Indigenous peoples to their original or traditional Wabanaki names, or names recommended by First Nations.
• Support First Nations in their efforts to revitalize the Wabanaki languages in New Brunswick.

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