Scientific director Pierre Noreau is often invited by the media to give his expert opinion on native issues. Recently, he participated in a CBC special on the apology from the Canadian Parliament to victims of the Indian residential schools. Here below is the press release issued by the Assembly of First Nations regarding this important event.

AFN National Chief acknowledges and supports Canada’s Parliament for sincere apology

June 12, 2008

AFN National Chief Phil Fontaine acknowledged Canada’s Parliament for a sincere apology delivered by Prime Minister Harper. The apology will hopefully begin a healing process for survivors, their families and loved ones as Canada’s past history of residential schools is acknowledged.

“Parliament acknowledged the wrongs of the past in the House of Commons with survivors and their families present, before church leaders, with the Prime Minister and all House leaders addressing Parliament, the nation and the world,” said National Chief Phil Fontaine. “The apology acknowledged that it was wrong to attack our culture, our faith, our identity and our autonomy as peoples. It acknowledged that these attacks were done in the most egregious manner, by depriving generations of children of the love and support of their parents, their culture, and their identity. This apology can, I believe, be viewed as a sincere attempt to heal past wounds.”

The National Chief added that the apology not only acknowledged the past, but noted that by addressing this tragic chapter of Canadian history, Canada can begin to turn a page of its history. The National Chief noted that the Prime Minister and House leaders spoke of a future in which Canada has promised to respect First Nations rights and would never again try to denigrate or destroy the identity of First Nations as distinct peoples; or compromise First Nations culture and families.

“For survivors, the apology is not only about healing past wounds, but is also about building a new relationship with Canada and to foster mutual trust and respect, for themselves, their children and grandchildren,” said National Chief Phil Fontaine. “This is why the apology is historic; residential school students, who were persecuted as children, have not only survived, they are now guiding Canada toward reconciliation. It is also important for all Canadians that we shed a light on this hidden aspect of our history so that we can begin to better understand and share with all Canadians our country’s past.”

“I also want to acknowledge that some survivors may find it difficult to accept this apology. The experiences of all survivors may be shared but each case is unique and individual. I personally hope that the healing can begin for all survivors. I also want to say that this is the start of the process for Truth and Reconciliation and the very important work that will begin under the guidance of Justice Harry Laforme,” the National Chief concluded.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

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