Canada Day is a great day for Canadians to better understand their history in colonialism and their continuing obligations to Indigenoious peoples. Most non-Indigenous Canadians lay claim to land that is not theirs to claim; we know this now and so our response must be intentional and gracious.
We can choose to celebrate, and we can choose to grieve, and, I believe, this must be done in tandem. If we continue to polarize each other by remaining on opposite sides of the conversation, we propel the illusion that we are divided.
I know many Canadians that want to celebrate the good that Canada represents. Our country is herald worldwide for its welcoming borders and safety for millions. Our citizens have and continue to innovate science, art, peace, entertainment and sport. Those accomplishments are in part to individuals having the freedom to contribute their gifts and skills to the globe via the freedoms Canadians possess.
But, here can be no reconciliation of Canada's past without facing the truth of its history. Many of the same freedoms we are globally famous for were also accomplished through genocidal means. We are not the only country in the world where this is true but allowing it to inform our future as Canadians is our journey alone.
July 1st was an opportunity for us to reflect on our privilege while celebrating the fact that our freedoms mean we can change.
An Indigenous Elder has said, “Creator gave us the gift of this good life, and it’s our choice to walk each day with joy and gratitude”.
I encourage you to celebrate what is joyous to you about Canada, but also, reflect on the knowledge you have of how we got here and make change, for the better.
And for those of you reading this from other countries, I would encourage you to take an honest look into the history of colonization in your country. We are not the only ones with a dishonourable record and it's important to know the truth so collectively we can do better, as a planet.
Amber (a.k.a. The Feisty PM)
0 comments