Message from Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health

National Child Day

November 20, 2012

As Minister of Health, I join Canadians in celebrating an important milestone on November 20th - National Child Day. This Day is dedicated to recognizing the importance of safeguarding the rights of children and youth, in Canada and abroad.

Since 1993, National Child Day has been celebrated across Canada to commemorate the United Nations' adoption of two major documents centred on children's rights. The Declaration of the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, are landmark commitments that continue to drive many of Canada's efforts today.  By ratifying those agreements, Canada committed to ensuring all children are treated with dignity and respect, giving children the opportunity to have a voice, and to be protected from harm.

Since that time, Canada has also taken steps to help strengthen a child's right to survival, healthy development, protection and social participation. The Government of Canada works with provincial and territorial governments, Aboriginal communities, and other groups to meet our obligations to children. The Aboriginal Head Start program, the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program, the Community Action Program for Children and the Nobody's Perfect Parenting Program continue to make a real difference in the lives of children, helping them grow up healthy and reach their full potential.

Finding practical solutions to complex issues surrounding the health of children and youth will involve many willing partners -governments, stakeholders, parents, caregivers, educators and children - to reinvigorate programs, develop innovative approaches in various areas like education and family services, and continue to make children a priority in our policies and programs.

As Minister of Health, I encourage all Canadians to take time on November 20^th to celebrate National Child Day. Learn ways to celebrate by visiting our dedicated Web site to explore the "Youth Corner" or to take the " Quiz".

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health
Government of Canada