Editorial: Owning it – Maple Ridge News

Jun 11, 2015

The road to healing for First Nations people all across Canada got underway some time ago, although there have been many bumps along the way.

One of the most important acts, which was entirely symbolic but nonetheless critical, was the public apology by Prime Minister Stephen Harper in 2008. This was issued to all the survivors of the residential school system, and it served to set into motion the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Over a six-year period, the commission has gathered plenty of evidence to show that, beyond a doubt, this painful part of Canada’s past has affected present-day relationships between aboriginal people and other Canadians. The residential school legacy has also deeply affected aboriginal communities and families.

The commission’s report made a host of recommendations. These need to be taken seriously and a plan looking at implementation needs to be drawn up.

Read More:Editorial: http://www.mapleridgenews.com/opinion/307026961.html