Question:
How can Canada right the wrongs done to First Nation peoples?
Answer: The Prime Minister’s
long overdue formal apology on behalf of the Canadian government on
June 11, 2008 was surely a step in the right direction. But systematic,
effective, long-range solutions are required. Righting the wrongs could
possibly include the following:
(1) Consultation rather than conflict holds the key to breaking the
deadlock. Patient, harmonious and cordial consultation between First
Nations leaders and the federal government should begin in earnest.
This type of consultation will lead to genuine results rather than the
disappointing showcased, hastily arranged conferences that satisfy
momentary media hunger. The “them against us” political power struggle
mentality and angry rhetoric have proven to be defective and
self-defeating.
(2) Aboriginals must have their fair share of
natural resources found on their lands or in their waters. This
equitable sharing will allow some reserves and communities to benefit
from a resource based economy.
(3) First Nations students should receive the necessary
training and education in the trades and professions that will allow
them to manage their own affairs and to meet ongoing infrastructure
needs.
(4) Canadian history textbooks should be rewritten to make all
students aware of the sorry treatment that was meted out to
First Nations peoples, particularly by the cultural assimilation policy
that motivated the Indian Act and the Residential Schools system.
Curriculums should sensitize students to native
spirituality.
(5) The Indian Act of 1876, which has been reformed by numerous and
generally progressive amendments since it enactment, was based on a
policy of assimilation and control. It should be abolished and replaced
by a bill of constitutionally protected rights and freedoms that
incorporate its amendments. A new framework needs to be
adopted.
(6) Pouring massive amounts of federal money into the band councils has
not produced the expected results. Although federal funding should
continue, taxpayers have the right to know that their money is being
spent wisely and honestly. Close supervision of the spending of any
federal money is appropriate, but economic self-sufficiency, not
welfare, should remain the goal. -
Jack
McLean
