Statement by Minister Qualtrough on the Closing of the Toronto 2017 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG)

The Government of Canada is proud to support Indigenous sport and athletes as we continue building a true nation-to-nation relationship between Canada and Indigenous Peoples

TORONTO, July 22, 2017 /CNW/ - As the Toronto 2017 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) come to a close and young Indigenous athletes celebrate together, I invite Canadians to join me in congratulating them on their accomplishments in sport and their contributions to their communities.

For the past week, participants demonstrated unity, teamwork and perseverance, representing their communities with passion and determination. They experienced once-in-a-lifetime moments along the way, through competition and camaraderie.

The Games extended beyond athletes this year, with each and every participant?coaches, officials, organizers, and volunteers?demonstrating the power of sport to bring Canada's cultural mosaic together.

On behalf of all Canadians, I congratulate the athletes on their performances and extend to them my best wishes for future competitions.

I would also like to thank all the organizers and volunteers who have worked so hard. Without you, these Games would not have been such a success.

Thank you. Miigwech.

Additional information on the North American Indigenous Games can be found at http://naig2017.to/

Follow Minister Qualtrough on social media:

Twitter: @CQualtro
Instagram: mpcarlaqualtrough

SOURCE Canadian Heritage