Long awaited

Today the Government of Canada offered an apology to Aboriginal survivors of residential schools. This apology is part of a conciliation package. Compensation had been handed out previously and there is a truth and reconciliation process beginning. I am proud as a young Canadian to witness our Government finally step up and apologize.

Residential schools were instituted by the Government of Canada as part of an education policy that was preceding the Indian Act. That is not to say there were not schools run by Churches assimilating Aboriginal children to either French or English cultures and Christianity. Assimilation is ingrained in Canadian history. However it is ironic how as students we are taught that the US is a melting pot and Canada is a mosaic. Assimilation began pre-confederation. The main goal of Indian residential schools was to "kill the Indian in the Indian".

Today was an important day because today the Government finally said they were sorry. Over the last two decades committees have been formed, documents written and recommendations offered. To say the least it was a long time coming.

It is a bittersweet apology. In part because this Government was not responsible for the implementation of the schools, nor for the abuses that were so prevalent. Therefore it is hard for many survivors to truly appreciate the sincerity. As well this Government acknowledged Canada's responsibility but did not offer much more.

This Government has not put Aboriginal issues in their platform. This Government refuses to sign the UN's International declaration of Indigenous Rights. This Government allows injustices to continue; poverty, malnutrition, poor housing conditions, limited resources, and unresolved land claims and treaty rights.

Nonetheless the apology was necessary and affirmed Canada's commitment to reconciliation towards Canada's Aboriginal people.

This day will be recorded in history and will be passed down to the next generations.

This day will remind us that we are all equal.

This day will remind us to embrace each others uniqueness in this countries diversity.

This day will be followed with passion and heart from committed individuals to to continue to strive for a united and strong Canada.