In a recent editorial, the Cochrane Eagle discussed the issue of racism. It is a real problem in Canada. Most people aren’t aware exactly how prevalent it is. It is a problem that is inherent because the average Canadian is not socialized or educated such that they can understand First Nations issues. Lately, we have been hearing a lot about truth and reconciliation. The federal and provincial governments, schools, and post-secondary institutions are making efforts to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established by the federal government as part of iys responsibility for traumatic abuses suffered by children in residential schools. For many, it was a painful process of reliving the past as they shared their experiences as children. It is a very dark part of Canadian history and one not known to many. Dr. Andrew Bear Robe of the Siksika Nation made an important point (one of many) about this process in an address to students at Mount Royal University. He suggested that we are bypassing the truth and going straight onto reconciliation. Many First Nations people are just now learning what happened to their parents and grandparents in residential schools. They had suffered in silence for decades until others started telling the truth. Some chose to tell of their experiences publicly so that people might learn and understand. There are those who chose not to talk about it at all. The truth has allowed some children to forgive their parents for choices they made. It has allowed reconciliations to occur. For many, it is impossible because connections were lost. For some, it was too late. The average Canadian is blissfully unaware of this important process as they pursue the American dream. The Canadian high school graduate does not know about policies of assimilation and the role residential schools played. He or she does not understand Aboriginal title or why treaties exist. The truth was not part of curriculum in Canadian public schools. The racist statements that we read are generally rooted in ignorance. Many people believe that First Nations people don’t pay taxes. This is true, only on reserves, where employment is limited and retail choices generally non-existent. But let’s consider this. Statistics Canada reports that 55 per cent of “registered or treaty Indians” live off-reserve. Living off-reserve, they have to pay all taxes but most people don’t know that. Nor do they realize that the free housing they refer to on-reserves are paid for and that education and health care are treaty rights. Why do treaty rights exist? Educate yourself. For some however, racist statements are rooted in hate. Two women in Manitoba were recently charged with inciting hate and uttering threats after proposing to have a “shoot an Indian day” on Facebook. That people are finally facing consequences for inciting hate on social media is long overdue. Hatred is a powerful thing. It is irrational and you cannot reason with the irrational. However, you can treat ignorance. The truth is in curriculum.
