Learning from the Scars of Cultural Genocide

Cultural heritage in each society plays a vital role in shaping future generations. Destroying aspects of one's cultural heritage such as language, art, music, beliefs, and customs, leaves generations feeling confused and directionless. The First Nations of the USA and Canada endured profound abuse, often described as cultural genocide. The horrors that took place in Canada's residential schools are only now beginning to surface, and the revelations are devastating to confront and understand.

The book Five Little Indians by Michelle Good is a powerful and unforgettable novel that deserves a wide readership. It is not just the story of residential school survivors,?it is a deeply moving exploration of family, trauma, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Learning from the history of residential schools is not solely about acknowledging past wrongs, it is also about actively working towards healing and reconciliation. This involves supporting First Nations-led initiatives that promote cultural revitalization, language preservation, and community healing.

We should all remember that history has shown that, when left unaddressed, its darkest chapters can resurface, impacting new generations and societies. Ignoring these lessons does not shield others, it merely sets the stage for repetition.