1993 a special year for indigenous people

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In a series of ceremonies across the country, members of Canada's first nations set the stage for the 1993 International Year of the World's Indigenous People.

Assembly of First Nations chief Ovide Mercredi and former Inuit Circumpolar Conference president Mary Simon were on hand at the United Nations for the international kick-off on Dec. 10.

Government officials and community leaders meanwhile marked the occasion with speeches, traditional festivities and appeals for action to correct historical wrongs.

"It is encouraging to know that the international community is beginning to recognize the rights of our people," said Indian Association of Alberta president Regena Crowchild at the Edmonton launching.

In Ottawa, Indian Affairs Minister Tom Siddon unveiled a commemorative poster and officially opened a new museum exhibit featuring 18 modern aboriginal artists.

Among the projects Siddon's department announced to coincide with international film-makers, distribution of a calendar showcasing the work of Native artists and the launch of a new magazine featuring drawings and essays by Native children about people they admire.

"1993 will be a pivotal year in increasing the appreciation and understanding of the importance of indigenous people to our country's past, president and future," Siddon said.

In a media statement, Native Women's Association of Canada spokesperson Sharon McIvor outlined a list of legislative changes the government should make to better the lives of aboriginal women.

A UN-sponsored year is an excellent backdrop for ending discrimination against women under Bill C-31 and in Canada's human rights laws, she said.