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Canada Day, eh? Author reflects how Indigenous neighbours might feel about Canada's birthday (4 photos)

'It is a bit like my German father on Remembrance Day…full of mixed emotions. I suspect it is a bit like that for those who are native,' author notes

I should think the Kings, Rois, Monagues and all those who live on Chimnissing Anishinabek, aka, Christian Island, must be thinking what are the Whites thinking when they celebrate “Canada Day?”

This is not an experience one might feel unless you were considered  an “Outsider.”

It is a bit like my German father on Remembrance Day…full of mixed emotions. I suspect it is a bit like that for those who are native.

Ok, the English apparently defeated the French on the Plains of Abraham, fought off the Republic to the south and used native allies. Once the borders were secure, deal-making started and big, 3 1/2”  round, silver medals were given out to the Pottawatamis who  supported the English.

Local hockey legend Wayne King’s father had the medal and wore it  proudly, his cousin bears it now. They are still loyal to the Crown. Are these medals like Eaton’s 25-year-service watches given for loyalty?

Are the feelings the same? Is this all I get?

White Boys likely feel just as put out after getting their watches ( if they are lucky ).

Native guys are likely a little more annoyed. Think Johnny Hawke and  the Anishinabek warriors at Thunder Beach claiming unceded land today, July 1. No, that is not the name of a heavy metal band, but he is just as angry.

I reach for my Pilling Bibliography, in the hope that my brain can wrap around so many of these new words that are entering my vocabulary. Perhaps, like John Smith and Bob Jones, I may still have a chance to enter this world.

Let us celebrate the land and water and place itself and all that we share together.

Let us find a common language in word and song and thank our Creator  

for the chance for reconciliation.

Happy Canada Day!  

René Hackstetter, July 1, 2021.