A Rich Heritage And A Somber Reminder.
Today in Canada is the national 25th anniversary of celebrating the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples, also known as Indigenous peoples.
Like so many across the globe, these groups share many similarities, yet they each have their own distinct heritage, language, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs – and their own values. While it is fitting to celebrate this important day, it is also an important reminder that the journey of reconciliation for all Indigenous peoples around the world is a long one and cannot be solved by a day.
I am particularly mindful of this annual celebration given the recent discovery of hundreds of Indigenous children buried decades ago in unmarked graves at residential schools in several Provinces. As I’ve shared previously, hate has no place in our society.
Today is a day of celebration noted on a calendar - one where we can experience the richness of the Indigenous culture, it is also a sobering reminder of the misguided actions toward the Indigenous peoples and others that have and continue to happen. Today, let us celebrate Canada’s Indigenous peoples. Let us remember the hundreds of souls lost. Let us choose inclusivity and foster an environment where all belong.
Nursing Professor at Mohawk/McMaster Institute(retired) FGA GemA "LeapingLapinCreations"
3 年We can never hold our heads high again as a country. We have lost so much with the génocide.
Venue Development Consulting
3 年Beautifully said Sherrif and the tragedy of the residential schools for indigenous people and all Canadians will remain with us as we move through reconciliation. Sadly more unmarked graves are being found and we must all find the compassion in our hearts to acknowledge this national shame.
Founder at Meeting Professionals Against Human Trafficking (MPAHT)
3 年Sherrif, the saddest part of this-well 2 things-1--there will be many many more & 2-Canada is not the only country where Indigenous have been dealt the blow of losing their own identities once settlers come from other countries. I can thing of several-US/Hawaii too; Australia, New Zealand, many parts of Africa. India. This is about colonialism. I took a course from U Alberta recently-Indigenous Canada and boy was my mind opened up. I learned nothing of this in school in the early 1960's--I do remember studying Louis Riel, a Metis and he was essentially a 'bad guy.' So, here's my challenge to PCMA: for every country PCMA is located, to some homework on the Indigenous people & learn about them, learn about how they were treated and do something to improve your own knowledge & if so desired, find a way to 'fight' it. Even if it is simply reading about it from their perspective. Thanks for letting me say my piece.
Human Adventurer
3 年????