In a stunning example of action speaking louder than words, the Harper Government cut funding to the National Aboriginal Health Organization — sneakily announced on Thursday afternoon before the Easter weekend. I wrote the following letter to John Baird, Foreign Minister and my MP:
Dear Minister Baird,
I am sure that, as Foreign Minister, you are aware that the state of Indigenous communities in Canada is well known around the world and greatly diminishes Canada’s stature as a modern democracy. Certainly, the Prime Minister has apologized for the residential schools horror; but your government’s actions belie those fine words. The cancellation of the National Aboriginal Health Organization is a shocking example of the Government’s callous disregard for the intelligence and integrity of Canada’s Indigenous peoples to address the aftermath of their mistreatment at the hands of European settlers. This is shameful behaviour and I can only hope that you will quickly act to change your policies.
I look forward to a response which details the steps that your Government is taking to respect Canada’s Indigenous peoples and support their work to regain control of their own lives and territories in order to offer their children the same opportunities that are available to other Canadians. Please do not tell me about the number of house trailers have been sent to Attawaspikat, I already know about that. What I want to know is what systemic changes you are making to turn that famous apology into real action.
Sincerely,
Cathleen Kneen