A Different July 1st Observance
We’re observing July 1st a little differently this year. Today, we are re-evaluating what Canada really means to us. We are reflecting on our relationship with the original peoples of this land and on our treatment of them, both past and present. We are taking stock of what we have achieved as a country with regards to our Indigenous communities and all that we have to do to move forward towards reconciliation with them.
Today, we are also honouring Indigenous Peoples and standing in solidarity with them. We respect the healing process that is necessary for Indigenous communities, especially with the ongoing discoveries at residential schools - in Kamloops, in Marieval, and just yesterday, in Cranbrook. We also recognize that, as searches continue, more shocking discoveries are likely to be made across the country.
These discoveries and the death of thousands of other Indigenous children are stark reminders of Canada’s disgraceful residential school system and the intergenerational trauma experienced by Indigenous communities.
The residential school system is not just another chapter in Canada’s history but a foundational part of colonial violence against Indigenous Peoples that continues relentlessly to this day. Settler society was built upon these injustices and as settlers, we are all complicit in these crimes. The name “Canada” is widely attributed to the Huron-Iroquois word “kanata,” meaning “village” or “settlement.” We have all benefited either directly or indirectly from the horrors of colonial violence by ‘settling’ here. So as settlers on these great lands, let's mark today as a day of education, reflection and conversation. Let's spend the day in honest discussion about our roles in the reconciliation process. Let's take the time today to consider the vast challenges we face in addressing the injustices both past and ongoing that Indigenous communities in this country face.
We all have a lot to learn about our past and present to be able to contribute to a better future for this country. Let us take the time today to truly educate ourselves about First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples and their vibrant cultures and rich traditions. Lets enlighten ourselves about the dark history of colonialism and how it has, for decades, suppressed and undermined these cultures and traditions.
Only by acknowledging this history and by acting on this knowledge can we begin to bring about positive changes for Indigenous Peoples. This education and understanding is essential so Canada can continue to grow and become a better home for Indigenous Peoples and settlers alike. As settlers we owe this to ourselves, and we owe it to the original peoples of this land - not just today, but every day of the year.
However, education alone is not enough. Increasing our understanding and awareness is just one step we can all take.
As injustices and discriminatory practices against Indigenous Peoples continue, and more residential school childrens' bodies are discovered every week, we also need to come together to take concerted action to hold our leaders accountable.
So just as we honour today with solidarity for Indigenous communities, we must also unite in outrage and demand justice from our leaders. We must take an active role in reconciliation and let our elected representatives know that we want to see real commitments and concrete action. Only then can we ensure that reconciliation and de-colonization proceed from mere discussion to meaningful action.
In this spirit, CCMW chapter presidents and staff and board members are coming together today to write letters of appeal to our leaders to urge action. We are also showing our support by sporting orange today. Wearing orange is a symbol of defiance against things that undermine children's self-esteem, and of our commitment to anti-racism and anti-bullying in general.
This July 1st, we call on you to commit to the idea of decolonization and reconciliation through collective education, open communication and concerted action. Let's spend the day imagining a better future for our country. A better future for all of us - Indigenous Peoples and settlers alike.
We hope you can join us.
How to Help?
Send an Urgent Message
Learn About Indigenous Peoples
Give to Orange Shirt Society
Donate to Indigenous Organizations
Social media: #EveryChildMatters
We continue to stand beside Indigenous Peoples and practice allyship through support and friendship.
In Solidarity,
Happy July 1st
