Premier of Prince Edward Island |
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Premier ministre de l'Île-du-Prince-Édouard |
May 29, 2006
Mr. Peter MacDonald, Principal
Eel Ground School
55 Church Road
Eel Ground, N.B. E1V 4E6
Dear Mr. MacDonald:
I would like to commend you, the grade seven and eight members of the Eel Ground First Nation Drama Club, Director Mr. John Bosma, Authoer Francis Perry, and everyone involved in the production for all your hard work and for your courage in addressing this issue. I know your project was well received by the Atlantic First Nation communities, and I am pleased that you have chosen to share your research and presentation with even more people.
Video Conferencing is an innovative communication method used to reach a larger and more diverse audience than can be reached by simply performing a play in front of a local audience. The People vs. Mary Moses carries an important message, and I congratulate you for working with the First Nation Help Desk to host this Video Conference on the effects of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
In Canada, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is one of the major known preventable birth defects among children. Through your hard work and your dedication to bringing this message to a wide audience, you are proving that young people can, indeed, make a difference. The statement you are able to make through this presentation can impact the lives of children not yet born. This is important work.
Students, I am pleased to note that you proudly use the Mik'maq language in this project, and I encourage you to continue to incorporate First Nations traditions throughout your school years and as adults. While Mi'kmaq history is certainly interesting and very important, First Nations people are valuable members of today's society as well, and we can all learn from the traditions and language that you carry into this century.
I extend my best wishes to everyone involved for the success of your forum, and, once again, congratulate you for all your hard work on this project.
Sincerely,
Pat Binns
Premier of Prince Edward Island