Premier John Horgan has released the following statement in honour of the 10th anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP):

“Ten years ago today, UNDRIP was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. The declaration represents a historic step toward recognition of the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples around the world.

“Our government fully recognizes that the declaration is essential to the future of Indigenous peoples here in British Columbia. That is why we are committed to working in partnership with Indigenous peoples to embrace and implement UNDRIP, which has been accepted by 148 nations, including the Government of Canada.

“It is a pivotal moment in our province and in our country. For the first time, we can see a path toward meaningful reconciliation with First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, and a true government-to-government relationship, based on rights, reconciliation and respect.

“Our government understands the enormous responsibility we have to Indigenous peoples, in the face of historical wrongs that have never been made right and in the wake of inaction by government after government.

“We’re ready to do the hard work together with Indigenous peoples to build healthy communities, and to create jobs, economic stability and shared prosperity that benefits all British Columbians. As part of that work, all B.C. cabinet ministers have been tasked with reviewing policies, programs and legislation to determine how to bring the principles of the UN declaration to action in British Columbia.

“Our government has made reconciliation a cross-government priority. As we work together to address urgent challenges, like wildfire and emergency response, the opioid crisis and support for children and families in communities, we will embrace and implement UNDRIP in full partnership with Indigenous peoples.”