Image retrieved from: www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca
Tansi Nîtôtemtik,
Wow, what a year it has been. I cannot believe that the academic year is almost over and it is already time to say goodbye to the blog. It has been a year of much personal growth and acknowledgment that I came into the course knowing nothing about Indigenous law or the issues with Indigenous Governance. The various topics that we have covered this year have been eye-opening to say the least. Before this class, I had never taken an Indigenous law class and felt that this would be a great opportunity to learn. Little did I know just how much I would learn and how impactful this year would be.
It was evident to me very early on that there is a large discrepancy between what the media reports regarding Indigenous issues and events and what the law actually says, particularly with the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion developments. The media reports one story that is aired to all Canadians, but it is often either not factual or not speaking to the legal background. This makes it difficult for the true state of Indigenous issues to be communicated. This is particularly frustrating as someone who is trying to learn. There is so much trust that is naturally placed in the media and it is essential to take a step back and remember that not all media reports are accurate. Putting blind faith in the media is dangerous and makes it increasingly difficult for Indigenous voices to ring over the noise.
This year has also taught me that participation in Indigenous issues and taking action is imperative, no matter how small. Even something as simple as researching Indigenous culture or Reconciliation is a non-negotiable. However, the journey towards Reconciliation cannot progress forward in a meaningful way without action, without acknowledgement and without support from all Canadians.
For far too long, Indigenous Peoples have been suppressed and treated unfairly in a society that is supposed to exude equality. The sad reality is that it doesn’t and we as Canadians need to do better. The panel discussion with Tasha Hubbard, Jade Tootoosis and Dr. Friedland really brought this to light. As a law student, it is my desire to believe that the Canadian justice system is efficient and provides justice for all, but that is simply not the case. Families like Colten Boushie’s are cast aside and treated as less than. It is essential that we acknowledge the existence of racism. Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples alike deserve to be treated equally under the justice system. The takeaway is simple: we need to do better.
There has been a lot to learn this year and I am very appreciative of the opportunity to research and write about Indigenous Governance. As I prepare for graduation, I am aware that there is much more to be done and that my role is not yet over. If there is one thing that I can leave you with, it is the message of Jade Tootoosis: “If you see someone going through an injustice and you have something you can offer them, reach out. Don’t sit back. If you have a knowledge or skill, it is a responsibility to put it forward to the people who need it most.”
Until Next Time,
Kailey Hubele
Contributor of Team ReconciliAction YEG
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