National Aboriginal Day marked in ceremonies across Canada

National Aboriginal Day celebrations took place across the country Saturday, honouring the cultural contributions of First Nation, Inuit and Metis people.

First proclaimed 12 years ago by the Liberal government of Jean Chretien, National Aboriginal Day is held on June 21, the first day of summer, the longest day of the year and the day deemed to mark the rebirth of Mother Earth. This year's celebration comes less than two weeks after Prime Minister Stephen Harper formally apologized on behalf of the government for the legacy of residential schools, where many young aboriginal people suffered abuse and neglect. source