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Ms. Jean Crowder (Nanaimo—Cowichan, NDP): Mr. Speaker, there have been discussions among the parties and I believe you will find unanimous consent for the following motion. I move:

That, in the opinion of the House, the government should declare the month of June as National Aboriginal History Month.

The Speaker: Does the hon. member for Nanaimo—Cowichan have the unanimous consent of the House to propose this motion?

Some hon. members: Agreed.

New Democrat Crowder’s motion passes unanimously after two year struggle

OTTAWA –MPs cheered today after a motion from New Democrat Jean Crowder (Nanaimo-Cowichan) received unanimous consent declaring June as National Aboriginal History Month.

“We need to recognize the enormous contribution that First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples have made to Canada. Declaring June National Aboriginal History Month is one small step,” said Crowder.

Two provinces, Saskatchewan and Alberta, already celebrate June as Aboriginal History Month.

Mr. Speaker, International human rights law acknowledges that, whenever possible, it is best to ensure children’s welfare within the family and community.

Standards for child and family services are set by provincial and territorial governments. Funding for child and family services on reserves however; comes from the federal government