It is 1965. At Brownies, we happily sing, "Where we children live today, Indian children used to play." I like the song, but I feel sad, something is not quite right.
In the neighborhood, we play "Cowboys and Indians." Everyone wants to be a cowboy. The cowboys get to shoot cap guns. The Indians have imaginary bows and arrows. The outcome is built into the game. The Indians always lose.
No one, adult or child, is aware of the abuses that are occurring in residential schools. Many do not even know that the schools exist.
Residential schools for native children were part of an official government policy of assimilation. Government expropriation of native lands marginalized native people. Residential schools contributed to marginalization through the loss of cultural identity. The institutions stripped children of their dignity, creating a culture of shame. Physical and sexual abuse accompanied emotional, cultural and spiritual abuse. Overtime, the experience of residential schools intensified existing social problems; these problems continue to plague native communities today.
Christian churches operated many of the schools. Beginning in the mid 1980's, churches began to formally apologize to native peoples.
In 2008, Prime Minister Harper apologized on behalf of the Canadian government. There was a $1.9 billion settlement for former students and the establishment of The Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
The Commission held its first national event last week in Winnipeg. It was an event that attracted international attention. Many countries, particularly in Africa, have had experience with the truth and reconciliation process.
Formal apologies are a first step towards reconciliation. Reconciliation is a long process that includes disclosure of the past and the creation of an accurate historical record. For Canada, it also includes recovering and celebrating the diversity of First Nations culture. The reconciliation process promotes healing and understanding among people.
Why should the native experience of residential schools matter to Canadians today?
On a personal level, all of us experience the need for healing. But it is more than that.
In 1993, Michael Peers, apologizing on behalf of the Anglican Church in Canada, said, "Without that healing, we will continue the same attitudes that have done such damage in the past."
The 1992 apology of the Oblates, a Catholic order, defines those attitudes as cultural, ethnic, linguistic and religious superiority. Attitudes of superiority promote and perpetuate social injustice.
When people have been wronged, the journey towards justice begins with uncovering the truth. Awareness of the truth is essential for reconciliation.
Justice Murray Sinclair, head of the Commission, noted that a vast number of Canadians remain unaware of the dark legacy of residential schools. The story must be told, even though "it is the kind of truth that causes you to squirm." He adds, "The truth will eventually heal us all." His words echo those of Jesus who promises, "The truth will make you free" (John 8:32).
It is 2010. I learn a song about justice. "Walk with me sister. Take my hand. Come with me brother to the Promised Land. So many miles to go till we get home." (Bob Carty)
Louise McEwanJune 20, 2010
