Rich, wonderful culture at residential schools
Re: Research confirms 3,000 residential school deaths, Feb. 19. As one of a very few people that actually had the opportunity to experience the residential school system from a unique and totally different point of view — Michael Miltenberger, the Northwest Territories minister of health being one of the other few exceptions — I look back at one of the most wondrous periods and experiences of my life.
Much is said about the atrocities and abuses of the residential school system and unfortunately I have firsthand knowledge proving that some of those accusations are true.
However, what many people do not realize is that there was an incredible, albeit maybe small, part of the residential school system that was not only geared toward selfgovernment, but that also led itself to the capability of so many people of the north to be able to take control of their own government and destinies.
If it were not for some of these residential schools, we would definitely not have many of the leaders of the North that we have today.
But this did not come without a price, I realize. When I look at the lives of Ethel Blondin-Andrew — probably the best known and respected northern politician who happened to be my sister’s schoolmate — and to Fred Kelly — known as Canada’s Olympic star crosscountry skier, and who was my classmate and one of my dearest friends — and the lives that they led, I feel such remorse.
However, when I look at the positive aspects where so many of my other classmates are not only leading many of the northern government initiatives but are also integral players in the negotiations for Aboriginal/Inuit rights and equalities, I know our experiences and education opportunities were not only worthwhile but necessary.
So this one-time naive young white Canadian babe in the woods, would like to thank his wonderful northern brethren for not only showing me the ways and cultures on the Northern people, but for also allowing me to be, even if it was for a few short years, part of such a rich and wonderful culture.
GLENN REED,
Ottawa