What Canada Day means to me

Normally Canada Day is a time for celebration, family, and festive fun. This year however, we must also reflect on our collective history. As a proud Canadian that believes strongly in #FamiliesFirst the news coming out of the Canadian residential schools is disturbing and very likely only the tip of the iceberg.

Truth is something we must acknowledge and face. The actions of our ancestors, although not our “fault”, is our responsibility. We, the living Canadians and humans on this Earth have inherited the world we live in from those who came before us. The story of abuse, cultural destruction and genocide is as old as recorded history and likely much older than that, yet we need not be shackled to our past. Knowing history and facing the truth is how we move forward together.

Many of you desire a better Canada for us and our children. If you want to take action, there are 2 additional things you can do. First, take the step that many in the indigenous community have asked for. Read and digest the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action. Pay special attention to page 12 section 71-76. Which lays out the plan to deal with residential schools.  http://trc.ca/assets/pdf/Calls_to_Action_English2.pdf

Second, demand action from our government. The only way forward is to shine the light of truth upon the darkest corners of our history. Please sign this petition asking for a full and detail study of all residential schools in Canada and tell your political leaders to make it happen. The true scope of this painful history must be exposed to allow for lasting reconciliation and healing.  https://petitions.ourcommons.ca/en/Petition/Sign/e-3484

In closing, please be kind to each other. The past 2 years have taught us much about patience, coping with struggle and the need for a strong community. While we cannot change the past. We can take action now for a better tomorrow. Never forget, we are the ancestors of our future generations. When they look back upon our time in this world, what will they say about us? Did we destroy our world and allow the darkest parts of our nature to divide us, or was this the foundation of a glorious future for our species and life in the universe? It all starts with facing the truth and owning our past.

Thank you for reading and have a very happy, healthy, and healing Canada Day.

-Andrew Crook CEO PC275 Realty

#BetheChange #EveryChildMatters #Canada