The summer of 2008 strengthened British Columbia’s appreciation for Aboriginal heritage, culture and achievements. The foundation for the New Relationship – respect, recognition, and reconciliation – has built relationships necessary to continue the advancements made between the Province, First Nations, and Aboriginal organizations.

The largest Aboriginal sport and culture event in North America took place in British Columbia this summer where Aboriginal communities from across Canada and the United States gathered in the Cowichan Valley. The 2008 North American Indigenous Games was a celebration of culture and history, and brought significant economic, sport, and community legacies to First Nations and to our province. My congratulations go out to all the athletes, coaches, volunteers and cultural participants who enthusiastically demonstrated community pride and showcased great hospitality during the week’s festivities. The success of the games represented a truly significant achievement for British Columbia and everyone in the Cowichan Valley. The Cowichan Tribes, who hosted the games, avidly demonstrated the spirit of the New Relationship and I am proud of their achievement.

Prior to the Cowichan Games, a Leaders Gathering, held in Saanich on August 2, brought together an unprecedented assembly of more than 110 First Nations and Métis leaders from around British Columbia. Aboriginal representatives met with local politicians, acknowledging the call to action by young Aboriginal leaders at the ‘Gathering our Voices’ Conference in March 2008, to discuss a provincial strategy that will improve health and lifestyles through sport, recreation and physical activity.

The gathering was a monumental experience for all who attended, and the resulting commitment to an Aboriginal sport, recreation and physical activity strategy will lead to healthier conditions for all Aboriginal communities.

Another mutual accomplishment was reached in May when the Province, Government of Canada and First Nations Leadership Council signed a historic memorandum of understanding, agreeing to work together to develop a comprehensive approach to improve housing for First Nations communities, individuals and families both on and off reserve. The agreement ensures First Nations live in healthy, safe, affordable, and culturally appropriate housing.

Evidence of goodwill resulting from the New Relationship was prominently on display this summer as I toured the West Coast of British Columbia. I was graciously invited to visit First Nations living along the coast, receiving tours of treaty lands and speaking with First Nation leaders and representatives. Ucluelet First Nation, Toquaht First Nation, Uchucklesaht Tribe and Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h First Nations also participated in two community celebrations to sign the Maa-nulth Final Agreement.

With the 2008 North American Indigenous Games as leading example, there are positive demonstrations of community spirit and relationship development occurring all over the province. Summer’s successes with First Nations partners are a reminder of what British Columbia can accomplish when everyone works together in the spirit of the New Relationship. There is still much more to be done, but I am looking forward to making further progress that will benefit the lives of all British Columbians.

Honourable Michael de Jong
Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation

Minister's Website