Media advisory – First Nations implementation of the UN Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples

VANCOUVER, Feb. 18 – First Nations leaders and international experts will examine ways First Nations can implement the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People at a two-day symposium entitled: “Implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: Minimum standards for the survival, dignity and well-being of the Indigenous peoples of the world.” The symposium will allow First Nations to examine ways they can move ahead with the UN Declaration in Canada. The UN Declaration was adopted by the United Nations in September, 2007 despite opposition from Canada, New Zealand, the United States and Australia. Since then, the Labour Party, newly-elected as the government in Australia, made a campaign promise to support the Declaration. Likewise, all opposition parties in Canada have urged the federal government to change its position and support the Declaration. Canada was actively involved in developing the UN Declaration for twenty years, but suddenly shifted its position, and began opposing the Declaration in 2006, after the election of a new government.

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For further information: Karyn Pugliese, AFN Communications, cell: (613) 293-6106, kpugliese@afn.ca; Colin Braker, Communications Director, First Nations Summit, cell: (604) 328-4094, CBraker@fns.bc.ca