Thank you Michelle for this eloquent and poignant post.
"Even though I was born here, I acknowledge fully that I am a guest to this land. I have SO much to learn about our country's Indigenous culture and history. I have a responsibility to my children to make sure they are educated on the true history of this country.
Canada Day for us in the past has been about celebratory parades, bbqs and fireworks. Canada Day for us moving forward will be about taking extra time to learn more about our Indigenous brothers and sisters.
I am very grateful to have been born as a woman in this country. Everyday I realize and appreciate my privilege being born in this country. I also accept the responsibility that comes along with that privilege."
July 1, 2021, Canada Day, our family is honoring the children of the residential schools and their families. I extend my sincere appreciation to my students, their families and the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Elders for their education, wisdom and history, particularly Simon Lucas who demonstrated exceptional communication skills and Larry Baird for educating Glenwood Elementary, Port Alberni, BC students and me.
Nanaimo Child Development Centre tS1ponsoredthho ·
Today is a day to reflect and acknowledge the crimes against humanity experienced by the Indigenous people of this country in the past and present day. Canadian history is marred by the mistreatment of many groups which is not in keeping with the Canadian values that we intend to uphold. This is a time to recommit to those values and the country that so many of us work so hard to build. With concrete action and meaningful accountability, together we must work to move forward to heal and live in a country that we can all be proud of. - DR