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Tag: residential schools

  • N.B. Election Controversy: Conservative Candidate Compares LGBTQ Policy to Residential Schools

    N.B. Election Controversy: Conservative Candidate Compares LGBTQ Policy to Residential Schools

    FREDERICTON – In a controversial statement, Sherry Wilson, the Progressive Conservative candidate for the Albert-Riverview riding in New Brunswick’s upcoming election, has drawn sharp criticism for comparing the province’s LGBTQ policy in schools to the legacy of residential schools.

    Wilson’s remarks come in the wake of changes made by Premier Blaine Higgs’s government in 2023, which altered guidelines that previously allowed teachers to use the preferred names and pronouns of trans and non-binary students without parental consent. Under the revised policy, teachers are now required to obtain parental approval for students under the age of 16 before using their chosen names.

    In a Facebook post marking National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Wilson asserted that the residential school system historically isolated Indigenous children from their families and cultural roots. She argued that such isolation should “never be allowed to happen again in Canada,” linking it to her party’s recent modifications to the gender identity policy.

    The response has been swift and pointed. Terry Richardson, Chief of the Pabineau First Nation, has called for Wilson to withdraw as a candidate, labeling her comments as harmful and insensitive. Green Party deputy leader Megan Mitton described Wilson’s comparison as “abhorrent, indefensible, and completely wrong,” urging her to apologize to Indigenous communities across Canada.

    The Progressive Conservative Party has yet to issue a statement regarding the backlash, and Wilson’s controversial Facebook post has since been removed. In her original message, she refrained from directly mentioning the gender identity policy but emphasized the importance of parental involvement in discussions about children’s development.

    As this controversy unfolds, the implications of Wilson’s comments resonate deeply within the context of ongoing discussions about LGBTQ rights, parental consent, and the historical impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities in Canada.

    Source: Swifteradio.com

  • Unpacking the Ownership of ‘Every Child Matters’: Who Holds the Rights?

    Unpacking the Ownership of ‘Every Child Matters’: Who Holds the Rights?

    September 30 holds significant importance in Canada as it marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day—a time for reflection on the profound impact of the residential school system on Indigenous communities.

    To commemorate this day, many Canadians wear orange shirts, often featuring the powerful phrase “Every Child Matters.” This phrase has become a symbol of remembrance for the children who endured and lost their lives within the residential school system, which operated from 1831 until 1996. Indigenous children faced the erasure of their identities, culture, and families during their time in these institutions.

    Support Indigenous Communities Through Your Purchases

    Orange shirts are available in various outlets, from major retail chains to local shops like INAC, located in Winnipeg’s CF Polo Park Mall. This Indigenous-run business donates a portion of its sales to support Indigenous communities. “We donate to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation,” says Michelle Cameron, owner of INAC and the daughter of a residential school survivor.

    However, the use of the phrase “Every Child Matters” has sparked controversy. The Orange Shirt Society (OSS) has sought to trademark the phrase, emphasizing that only they and authorized licensees may use it in connection with merchandise. Their notice states that any alternate designs featuring the phrase must receive prior written consent from the OSS, as unauthorized use could lead to legal repercussions.

    Defending Cultural Significance

    Cameron expresses her disagreement with the OSS’s claims. “I think ‘Every Child Matters’ now belongs to everybody,” she argues, highlighting the universal significance of the phrase beyond any single organization.

    Phyllis Webstad, the founder and CEO of OSS, emphasizes that the trademark aims to encourage consumers to purchase orange shirts from retailers associated with the OSS rather than for-profit entities. “Our experience is not a fashion statement,” she states, underscoring the need to respect the spirit of the day.

    Despite the OSS’s efforts, Cameron believes it’s too late for a single entity to claim ownership of the phrase. According to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office, the OSS’s trademark application for “Every Child Matters,” submitted on May 11, 2020, is still under review. Evaluators have indicated that the phrase is “not inherently distinctive,” suggesting it should remain available for general use.

    Moving Forward Together

    Webstad recounts how her personal experience—having her orange shirt, a gift from her grandmother, taken away at a residential school—motivated the establishment of Orange Shirt Day. The phrase “Every Child Matters” was chosen in 2013 to honor the children who lived through these harrowing experiences.

    While the OSS has established licensing agreements with major retailers like Walmart and London Drugs to sell orange shirts, Cameron remains committed to her independent business model and does not plan to seek a license from the OSS. “I don’t think that’s the right thing to do,” she asserts, advocating for broader access to the phrase and its associated message.

    As Canada observes Truth and Reconciliation Day, the conversations surrounding the phrase “Every Child Matters” highlight the ongoing challenges and complexities of recognizing and honoring Indigenous voices and experiences.

    Conclusion

    This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and acknowledging the past. As Canadians wear their orange shirts, let us all reflect on the journey toward healing and solidarity with Indigenous communities across the nation.

    Source: Swifteradio.com

  • Winnipeg Street Officially Renamed in Ceremony on National Indigenous Peoples Day

    Winnipeg, MB – On National Indigenous Peoples Day, Winnipeg held a ceremony to officially rename a significant street that was originally named after a Catholic bishop known for his advocacy of residential schools.

    Last year, the city council voted to rename Bishop Grandin Boulevard in the south end to Abinojii Mikanah, which means “children’s way” in Anishinaabemowin.

    Bishop Vital-Justin Grandin was identified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission as a key proponent of residential schools. Mayor Scott Gillingham stated that the renaming acknowledges historical injustices and celebrates the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities.

    Frank Beaulieu, a knowledge keeper involved in selecting the new name, emphasized that it unites all Manitobans, regardless of race or culture. “I believe our children and grandchildren unborn will walk in a humble way with humility, respect, and love for one another,” he remarked.

    The first street signs with the new name were installed in May, and two other streets in the city named after Grandin were also renamed.

    Mayor Gillingham highlighted that the decision to rename these streets goes beyond symbolism. “It’s an affirmation of our commitment to the preservation of Indigenous languages and cultures for future generations,” he said.

    Friday’s renaming ceremony featured teachings from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis elders, music, powwow dancing, and speeches from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous dignitaries.

    This report by The Canadian Press was first published on June 21, 2024.