International Law

Indian Residential School Apology

I have little to say about this actually. I have blogged before on my own feelings about the settlement and its process, so check out the archives if you are interested.

There are, however, two things that I do want to say.

I am in no position to accept or reject this apology. I have been very fortunate enough to have never attended the schools. The apology is for the survivors, and to those affected, and they may decide what to make of the apology. It was long overdue, but I am happy that it was eventually made. My heart sinks for those who did not live long enough to receive the apology or the compensation, or even made it out of the schools alive for that matter.

Secondly, I am also pleased that an Aboriginal Truth and Reconciliation Commission will be launched as well too because it is important that this horrific history be known, and that Canada cannot truly back up its claim (yet) of being a champion for human rights.

Good god my eyes water up so much when I think about what happened to all those children in those schools. I can only hope that the apology will continue to be a part of, or even be the start of, the healing process for the survivors. I?m thinking of you all.

Full post as published by The Co-co Banana on June 11, 2008 (boomark / email).