(Taykwa Tagamou Nation Territory ON, April 22, 2021) – On April 22, Earth Day and Great Lakes Day, the Ontario Regional Chief, RoseAnne Archibald, asks everyone to collectively give thanks to Mother Earth and reflect upon the essential role we all play in protecting and preserving our land, waters, air, and natural resources.
“Today, April 22, marks the annual Earth Day and Great Lakes Day, a day to bring awareness and take action in addressing climate change and protecting Mother Earth,” said Ontario Regional Chief RoseAnne Archibald. “As First Nations, we have an inherent, sacred responsibility to protect and preserve our lands, waters, territories, air and other natural resources, as well as uphold these responsibilities for our future generations.”
“This year, Indigenous and non-Indigenous people across the globe have been at the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic. While we have learned much and truly came together during a time of crisis, it is abundantly clear that Earth Day must include a larger call for action to address the ongoing environmental crisis, which has played a prominent role in our food supply, global health, climate disasters and more during the pandemic.
Today, I am calling on all Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to take the lead on climate action and seek greater environmental protections. For us to build back an equitable society for all, it requires a global, concrete action plan that includes addressing the environmental crisis. We must work together, alongside the federal and provincial governments, to create a sustainable long-term strategy rooted in partnership and the mutual goal of healthy, safe, and vibrant First Nations communities for our future generations.
As we collectively mark Earth Day and Great Lakes Day, I would also like to acknowledge the tireless work of the many Water Walkers and advocates for their dedication in protecting and preserving our lands, waters, air and natural resources.”
Ninanaskamon!
Ontario Regional Chief RoseAnne Archibald
