Ottawa

The Governor General and Theresa Spence

The Governor General’s remarks to First Nations leaders this evening at Rideau Hall.

Without a doubt, there remains much hard work to be done. In a country as vast and diverse as Canada, our differences are many, and sometimes they can overshadow all that we have in commonas people. As mothers and fathers, as Elders and grandparents, sisters and brothers and aunts and uncles. As children.  

Our differences can also make it easy to forget that diversity is one of our country’s true strengths. I have always believed that our greatest potential lies in what we have yet to learn from each other, and I am confident that by working together in a spirit of respect, we can create the conditions in which Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people can thrive equally, according to their hopes and dreams. And we know that we learn best with open minds. As I am fond of saying: minds, like parachutes, work best when open.

Mr. Johnston offered a “special welcome” to Chief Theresa Spence and expressed concern for the health of her, Raymond Robinson and Jean Sock. Chief Spence though apparently came away feeling disrespected and plans to continue her hunger strike.

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