Rankin Inlet (July 02/03) - Nothing is more uniquely Canadian than multiculturalism.

The opportunity to celebrate the variety of national and ethnic groups in Canada is held dear to the nation's people and government.

John Papak smiles after receiving a hotdog from Mary Irkootee. The Royal Bank of Canada in Rankin Inlet hosted a barbecue on June 20 and celebrated National Aboriginal Day early. - Chris Puglia/NNSL photo

Last week, Canada recognized National Aboriginal Day.

Only a week before Canada Day, National Aboriginal Day is a chance to recognize and celebrate the important role of Canada's aboriginal people.

"It gives us a chance to remember how lucky we are, we live in a free world, a free country," said Eric Ukpatiku.

National Aboriginal Day was first proclaimed by Governor General of Canada Romeo LeBlanc in 1996.

The push for the creation of National Aboriginal Day began back in 1982.

The National Indian Brotherhood, now the Assembly of First Nations, asked that June 21 be proclaimed National Aboriginal Solidarity Day.

In 1990, Quebec became the first Canadian province to recognize June 21 as a day to recognize and celebrate aboriginal culture.

Five years later the royal commission on Aboriginal Peoples recommended that the federal government follow suit.

"It's a day that the whole nation recognizes that we exist and we contribute to the whole nation, and to be proud to be an Inuk," said Noah Tiktaq.

Nothing has more cultural significance than a person's name.

Both Tiktaq and Ukpatiku said their Inuit names are what make them unique.

Tiktaq's Inuit name is Atangalaaq, which he inherited from his great uncle, Ukpatiku's in Manick, which he said means egg.

"That's what is unique about us," said Tiktaq.