By Katarina Ziervogel

It has been 4 years since Canada first released its Truth and Reconciliation Commission report that includes a list of 94 calls to action, and to strengthen a strained relationship between Canada and Indigenous people. The government of Canada has made several unfulfilled promises in attempt to redeem themselves for the damage and pain they have caused to Indigenous people. The report itself was promised to be momentous for Indigenous people, but in the last four years it shows we are still a long way from achieving a better relationship, and peace for all.

One of the examples is evidence that there are things that needed to be done in the event of the TRC’s report. Senator Lynn Beyak’s comment on the TRC’s report with regard to residential schools was historically inaccurate. It is eerily similar to some reports where people in higher places, such as a professor has denied the events of the Holocaust. This falls on the educational system, which lacks teaching youth about the past of Indigenous peoples, and the residential schools. If youth lack the knowledge of their history, how are they going to understand the struggles Indigenous people have been facing for hundreds of years.

Fortunately, several universities across the Canada launched a new module completely focused on First Nations people and their history. For instance, the University of Manitoba launched an Indigenous Institute of Health and Healing. The program covers a range of topics on traditional knowledge, math and science, admissions policies and processes, and Indigenous health care. This is a major step in educating all about the history and culture of the Indigenous peoples.

If the list of 94 calls to action is completed, the future generations of Indigenous peoples and Canadians will achieve its goal of bettering its relationship and to give the peace Indigenous people needs.

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/three-years-later-is-canada-keeping-its-truth-and-reconciliation-commission-promises/article34790925/

http://www.peopleforeducation.ca/indigenous-education/findings-from-the-truth-and-reconciliation-commission/

http://www.themanitoban.com/2017/06/university-manitoba-launches-indigenous-institute-health-healing/31571/