Canada's history of colonialism

The Indian Act made it illegal for us to speak our language.

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Dateline: Tuesday, October 13, 2009

From: Aimee Bailey, Ontario

On September 25th, Stephen Harper addressed the G20 nations boasting of Canada that "We have no history of colonialism." In response, I would like draw attention to the near 400 years of colonization suffered by the First Peoples of Canada.

After initial European contact with Champlain in 1613 our "history" was documented by Europeans, each with various agendas of their own. The oral traditions, beliefs, and lifestyle that had served our people well from the beginning of time [over 13000 years are documented], were rarely understood by these colonists and so, it was either simply not acknowledged by them, or more often that not, treated with contempt.

The Algonquin People of the Ottawa Valley actively sought dialogue with these colonists through the 18th century but were ignored, and then, in 1880, their lack of consideration for our inherent rights was made even worse when Prime Minister John A. Macdonald's government implemented the Indian Act.

It was now AGAINST THE LAW for us to speak our Language, practice our Ceremonies, or even to wear our Traditional clothing. THIS REMAINED THE LAW FOR 71 YEARS. Only in 1951 were these provisions removed. We were still not eligible to vote in Canada — that was only permitted in 1960. You can read more about how we were affected by colonization at the address below. (see 'Our Story').

Perhaps oversights reflected in Mr. Harper's comments are the reason behind Canada not endorsing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples two years ago. In turn, that may have had something to do with his apology to First Nation Survivors of the colonial residential schools of last year. However, until the Government of Canada put as much intent, determination, and resources into restoring our civilization as it did into destroying it, then Harper's apology was only … words.

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