National day for truth and reconciliation
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an incredibly important day, on which we recognize the past, present, and future impacts that colonization had on the Indigenous peoples and communities in Canada. We take this day to honour and remember the Indigenous families impacted by residential schools. Particularly, the children who were taken from their families and communities to attend residential schools, the children who never returned home, those who returned home forever changed, and the impacts this has had on the families of these children and Indigenous communities as a whole– the effects that we witness to this day. Reconciliation is an ongoing process, and this day is only one of many important and necessary steps that we must take as a country to understand and address the atrocities committed against such an important group of people. This is a day to build understanding of Indigenous communities and the value they bring to our communities, as well as how they have been wronged as a group.
Demographics of different contemporary struggles
Overrepresentation in the criminal justice system
Although the Indigenous population only accounts for roughly 5% of Canada’s population, they are vastly overrepresented in a few key systems. For example, Indigenous men are 8.4 times more likely to be incarcerated than their non-Indigenous counterparts. Additionally, Indigenous women have an over-representation rate in the judicial system of 15.4 times higher than non-Indigenous women. Another example is Indigenous youth who make up for almost 54% of the children in the foster care system. These examples indicate there are key systematic barriers which Indigenous people face that are resulting in these over-representations.
Resources (clean water)
Although there has been progress in the past few years, there is still a lack of clean water on many First Nation Reserves. Currently, 73 % of First Nations’ water systems are rated at medium to high risk of contamination. Indicating that the human right to clean, safe, drinking water and sanitation is being violated. Additionally, there are 28 long-term advisories placed on the drinking water on reserves, some of which have been in place for over 25 years. Each water advisory indicates that as many as 5,000 people lack access to safe and clean drinking water.
Historical statistics
When the last residential schools were open
Residential schools were establishments first opened in 1831, and are now recognized as a form of cultural genocide. These “schools” tore Indigenous, First Nations, Métis and Inuit people away from their homes and families, severed their ties from their culture, and forced them to adopt a Euro-Canadian name and language. During this time, practicing Indigenous spirituality and wearing traditional regalia were forbidden, and cultural ceremonies such as potlatches were declared illegal. These residential schools have confirmed the deaths of 4,130 children, however, as the records of these schools were incomplete, the amount of children who died at these schools is likely much higher than the confirmed cases. The last functioning residential school in British Columbia was the Christie Indian Residential School closed in 1983. This residential school was located on Meares Island, which was a small island located near Tofino, and was responsible for at least 23 student deaths.
The year voting rights were earned
The Indian Act became a law in 1876, which made the practicing of First Nations culture illegal and controlled each facet of Indigenous life, ranging from the language they were allowed to speak, to their right to vote. First Nations only gained the full right to vote with no conditions in 1960.
95% of the land belonging to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples in BC was unceded. Indicating that the land was stolen from them illegally, as it was not legally signed to the Crown. Additionally, this meant that the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples did not receive any treaties or compensation for all this stolen land.
How to be an ally, how to educate yourself and support
Educating yourself about indigenous histories, cultures and struggles is the first step to allyship. Taking the time to read books, articles, or listen to podcasts by Indigenous authors and activists is always a good idea! This will help you gain a deeper understanding of their lived experiences and challenges. Another way to learn more about Indigenous history and culture is by engaging in respectful dialogue with indigenous peoples. It is important to listen attentively, ask questions, and seek consent before sharing Indigenous stories or cultural practices!
Supporting indigenous-led initiatives is another important aspect of allyship. A good way of doing this is by attending events, workshops, and fundraisers organized by indigenous communities. By actively participating and showing your support, you can help amplify their voices and contribute to their causes. It’s also important to challenge systemic injustices by advocating for indigenous rights and sovereignty. By using our privilege we can speak up against stereotypes, discrimination, and cultural appropriation and advocate for ongoing injustices.