It's been a very long time in coming, but finally this afternoon at 3:00 pm EDT the Prime Minister of Canada stood in the House of Commons to deliver a formal apology to the First Nations people of this country who suffered abuse during their stay at government sponsored residential schools from British Columbia to Newfoundland.
Today's apology voiced in the Canadian parliament comes only four months after a similar apology was spoken by the Prime Minister of Australia. The close proximity of these two events speaks volumes about the fact that both countries have been conscious of the betrayal that aboriginal people have had to endure during the past centuries, and the common errors which have been made throughout history by those who were involved in introducing European culture to the new world.
Surrounded by other Members of Parliament, the Prime Minister spoke to eleven aboriginal leaders who had been invited to sit in the House of Commons. They represented the various First Nations people who are found throughout the country, and whose people were forced to attend the residential schools in Canada for a period of more than 100 years, ending only in the late 1990s.
Initial reports, which have been flooding the airwaves all afternoon, speak of gratitude for the words of apology which have been so long in coming. This milestone represents a major development in the long battle for the acceptance of blame for having forced thousands of Canada's First Nations people to be re-programmed, effectively denouncing the validity of their traditional customs and beliefs.
Reactions to the apology are mixed. While some accept the Prime Minister's words with grateful hearts, others will need to test the honesty of that which has been said, and this will take place in the coming weeks and months as the fallout from this day comes to light.
The road to recovery is long, and often has many twists and turns which must be negotiated. Each person who was effected by the residential school experience, and all of their descendants will eventually have to travel that road. In the meanwhile, efforts at promoting reconciliation are well under way in many parts of Canada and are meeting with various levels of success. Now that the apology has been spoken the proverbial ball has been thrown into the courts of those who must either accept it or not.
Truth be known, this day represents a great development in the process of reconciliation. What happens next remains to be seen.
1 comment:
The First Nations People have fought a difficult battle and have taken a significant step forward. Healing can now begin for this brave and strong Nation.
However, all of Canadian culture needs to recognize our role, even now, in this modern tragedy. We need to see and value this culture and deep spiritual nature of their beliefs. How many have experienced a sweat, or understand and know how to smudge? What are the first words in your head when you see a First Nations person? Are these words complimentary or negative?
Jesus welcomed all to his table to dine with Him and to experience His love. Are we willing to be steps in the healing process for our First Nations brothers and sisters? Can we see the need to heal our selves of many deep-seated prejudices and openly welcome all to share our life journey?
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