The things that I know now, I have not always known. I am still continuing to learn and will never stop learning throughout my journey. I believe that Canada, or any country for that matter, cannot progress into the future without first having an understanding of its past. In other words, we need to understand the full history of our own country in order to know the steps we should take that will benefit all our countries inhabitants for the future, including our countries Indigenous culture. Everyone knows that you learn from your mistakes and I think Canada as a whole should do the same, by genuinely putting effort forth to decolonize.
There is no doubt that progress being made, for example, Immersion Schools and Programs are being offered where people can learn their own languages and I am not just talking about French Immersion but Immersion Programs which enable our Indigenous cultures to relearn their languages. Effort is being put forth within the political sphere as well, if you take a look at what Justin Trudeau is doing, he is working alongside Indigenous People’s, encouraging them and our country to lift up the voices of the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit culture, so they can be truly heard and recognized. There are many individuals who are also trying to raise awareness and an understanding of the injustice that has occurred, in hopes to evoke some kind emotion, and a great example of this is Gord Downie’s project, The Secret Path, which this blog post was originally going to focus on. The video and the panel discussion at the end of The Secret Path contains valuable information that I think all Canadians should take the time to watch on their own and do with it what they will. In addition, Universities and Colleges have begun to implement an Indigenous course requirement, as well as, acknowledging the territorial land that we are on.
These are a few examples of the progress being made, which foster hope and a vision for the future. Along with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Final Report. The truth of Canada’s history needs to be further understood in order for continuous progress to happen. There are many hurt individuals and in order for them to take care of themselves and to heal, I think one of the things that need to happen is for more Canadians to recognize what has happened and the negative ramifications that have occurred as a result. I hope for a conscious effort being put forth to not repeat history.
“Don’t be in such a hurry to condemn a person because he doesn’t do what you do, or think as you think. There was a time when you didn’t know what you know today.” – Malcolm X