Treaty 1 Territory, Winnipeg, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. expresses deep concern and disappointment over recent events at the University of Manitoba and the University of Winnipeg that undermine the truths shared by Residential School Survivors on this, the 10-year anniversary of the Calls to Action of the TRC. These actions are profoundly disrespectful, especially as Canadians prepare to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th.
“This is a time for honouring Survivors, not retraumatizing them,” said MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “Truth is not up for debate. The experiences of Survivors have been documented through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and preserved by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.”
MKO continues to advocate for the passage of Bill C-9, which would recognize Residential School denialism as a hate crime, preventing this type of harmful rhetoric from ever being permitted on campuses again.
“We demand Canada recognize residential school denialism as a hate crime,” Grand Chief Settee stated.
Reconciliation is a shared responsibility. MKO urges all Canadians to uphold the dignity of Survivors and commit to truth, accountability, and healing.
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Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) is a non-profit, political advocacy organization that has represented 26 First Nation communities in Manitoba’s North since 1981. The MKO represents more than 72,000 First Nations people.
