Ottawa 2008 - Young people from rural and urban communities across Canada, and from a variety of religious and cultural groups, discussed issues of identity and belonging in a Canadian context in order to better inform both government and civil society leaders of the voices of youth.

The NCCAH supported Aboriginal participation in the annual May workshop at the Landon Pearson Resource Centre for the Study of Childhood and Children's Rights. The event was the third in an annual series designed to expand national understanding of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

On the issue of language for instance, one youth observed: “Many Aboriginal people feel they aren't Canadian because their language isn't recognized as official.”

The report, Shaking the Movers II: Identity and Belonging, highlights the discussions and brings recommendations forward reflecting youth insight, wisdom and lived realities as members of Canadian society.

Jordie Fraser, a graduate student from the University of Northern BC, acted as a youth facilitator and was struck by dialogue bridging the experiences of youth from inner city Toronto, rural New Brunswick, and Aboriginal communities near Prince George.

“It was pretty amazing how open-minded the children were,” he said. “It's still very new, to ensure youth voices are heard. Many had never been asked for their opinions in quite this way. It was definitely empowering.”   

The final report is available here or by contacting the Landon Pearson Resource Centre for the Study of Childhood and Children's Rights at: 613-520-2600 ext. 1453. In 2010, youth will focus on young people's rights in education, as outlined in the UN Convention.