MNO
Press Release:
Historic United Nations DECLARATION
ON RIGHTS OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES adopted by overwhelming
majority vote
NEW YORK (September 14, 2007) --- The
United Nations has adopted the Declaration on the Rights
of Indigenous Peoples at a meeting of the General Assembly
at UN Headquarters in New York by an overwhelming majority
of 143 votes in favor, four opposed and 11 abstentions.
The Métis Nation, represented by Métis
Nation of Ontario President Tony Belcourt joined leaders
of Indigenous Peoples from around the world at this
momentous occasion to applaud the Nation States which
voted to approve the Declaration and to express its
profound disappointment in Canada and the small number
of other countries (Australia, New Zealand, USA) which
voted in opposition to its adoption.
Mr. Belcourt stated: “This is
a truly remarkable milestone in the history of the struggle
by Indigenous Peoples for the recognition of their rights
by the global community of Nation States. It is the
result of debate and negotiation between Indigenous
peoples and Nation States for more than two decades
since it was first drafted in 1985. The Declaration
is an aspirational affirmation of our rights consistent
with international law and as such provides a framework
for the protection Indigenous peoples and the promotion
of harmonious relations within the States where they
live. We call on Canada to work with the Métis
Nation and other Aboriginal peoples to develop policies
and actions which are consistent with the provisions
of the Declaration despite its opposition to its adoption.
Now that we have achieved this great moment in history,
it is incumbent on all States, including Canada, to
work in a spirit of cooperation with Indigenous peoples
within their borders towards the implementation of the
provisions of this historic Declaration.”
CONTACT:
Chelsey Quirk,
Communications Assistant
Work: 613-798-1488 Ext. 104
Cell: 613-299-6085
Email: chelseyq@metisnation.org
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