FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 21, 2012
MP Joyce Murray Honours National Aboriginal Day, Musqueam Indian Band
VANCOUVER – In honour of National Aboriginal Day, Joyce Murray, Member of Parliament for Vancouver Quadra, and Liberal Critic for Small Business and Tourism, issued the following statement:
“I send my best wishes to all those gathering in celebration of National Aboriginal Day today, particularly those celebrating with the Musqueam Indian Band at their community lunch and attending the Grand Opening at Klahowya Village in Stanley Park,” said Murray.
“Today, Canadians recognize and honor the First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in our communities for their important contributions to the past, present and future of our country, and we reflect on the unique successes and challenges of Aboriginal Canadians today.”
Murray continued, “I would like to acknowledge the leadership and many contributions of the Musqueam Indian Band, who have made the Lower Mainland their home for thousands of years and are based in Vancouver Quadra.”
“Currently, the Musqueam people are engaged in a pragmatic effort to protect the Marpole Midden, home to intact human remains of Musqueam ancestors, and a National Heritage site since 1933. I was pleased to respond to their request for help, and have written to the federal Minister of Aboriginal Affairs to urge his involvement in a swift resolution that preserves the cultural and historical significance of the site while respecting other private and community interests.”
Murray visited the Marpole Midden site last week, and noted that the Musqueam have garnered a great deal of public support. “Visiting the Midden, and seeing other supportive visitors and honking motorists, it is clear that the community stands behind the Musqueam in their efforts to preserve their heritage,” said Murray.
As the Liberal Critic for Small Business and Tourism, MP Murray has also engaged Aboriginal groups providing leadership in the tourism industry, and attended the first-ever Aboriginal Tourism Conference as a keynote speaker this spring. Murray noted, “I witnessed first hand the entrepreneurship and strategic partnerships employed by Aboriginal groups in the small business and tourism sector. These innovative approaches are creating the conditions for development and jobs in communities in BC and across the country.”
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Contact:
Office of Joyce Murray
604-664-9220
613-992-2430
