Truth and reconciliation – the two are essential – Cape Breton Post

June 09, 2015

Events involving aboriginal communities over the past year signal change is coming

Occasionally during discussions on projects related to economic development and environmental changes, a member of our aboriginal community will remind us that their ancestors have occupied this land for thousands of years.

It would not be unfair to say that gains and improvements to the aboriginal quality of life have come slowly – if at all – in many instances.

However, it is useful to take note of a few events over the past year that signal change is coming. Perhaps hard earned by our aboriginal folks, these events will change some of the old ways of doing business forever. A good omen.

For example, in June 2014, the Supreme Court of British Columbia heard the case of Tsilhqot’in Nation v. British Columbia, and confirmed aboriginal title or claim to large land areas.

Read More: http://www.capebretonpost.com/Opinion/Columnists/2015-06-08/article-4174638/Truth-and-reconciliation-%26ndash%3B-the-two-are-essential/1