National Aboriginal Day Events Planned

Mi'kmaq communities throughout Nova Scotia will host special events on Monday, June 21, National Aboriginal Day.

Michael Baker, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, urged all Nova Scotians to participate in the activities to better understand the culture, history and achievements of Canada's Aboriginal Peoples.

"We have started a process of discussions with the Mi'kmaq and the federal government on treaty and related issues and Nova Scotians will want to become more familiar with our native heritage," the minister said. "We want to achieve a new relationship with our Mi'kmaq neighbours."

First Nations communities hold workshops on traditional teaching, drumming, dancing and crafts. Some communities organize sports events, storytelling sessions, powwows and presentations on Aboriginal culture.

National Aboriginal Day was first proclaimed by former governor general Romeo LeBlanc in 1996 after the National Indian Brotherhood launched a national campaign in 1982.

National Aboriginal Day is held on summer solstice, the longest day of the year and the first day of summer.