As a Métis-Cree woman, the scars of intergenerational trauma and the loss of culture run deep within me. I carry the weight of my ancestors' pain, their stories of resilience and survival echoing through my veins. The legacy of residential schools has touched my family, my community, and my very being, shaping the path of my life in ways I am still learning to understand.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation holds a profound significance for me and countless Indigenous peoples across Canada. It is a day to honour the survivors and victims of residential schools, to acknowledge the pain and suffering endured by generations of Indigenous children who were forcibly removed from their families and communities, and to commit to healing, understanding, and reconciliation.
The impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities is a wound that festers still. The trauma inflicted upon our children, the cultural genocide perpetuated through the stripping of language, tradition, and identity – these are scars that may never fully heal. I carry the stories of my ancestors who survived the horrors of residential schools, who bore the weight of shame and silence, and who fought to reclaim their culture and their sense of self.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action provide a roadmap for addressing the legacy of residential schools and forging a path toward reconciliation. These calls to action are not just words on a page; they are a solemn promise to the survivors, the victims, and the generations yet to come. They call on all Canadians to bear witness to the truth, to acknowledge the injustices of the past, and to work together towards a more just and equitable future.
For me, the journey towards reconciliation is deeply personal. It is a journey of healing, of reclaiming my cultural heritage, of finding strength and resilience in the face of adversity. I have felt the weight of intergenerational trauma, the burden of loss and disconnection from my roots. But through my work with the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation, I have found a way to channel that pain into purpose by supporting the creation of a thriving and inclusive Indigenous economy grounded in Indigenous values.
Indigenous entrepreneurs are paving a path forward by instilling a sense of pride in our communities. Through our businesses and ventures, we are not just creating economic opportunities; we are reclaiming our cultural heritage, language and traditions. We are challenging stereotypes and reshaping the narrative of Indigenous success. By urging corporate Canada to rethink the way business is conducted, we are embedding our values and fostering a sense of belonging.
Examples of this inspiring work are all around us. Brands like Cheekbone Beauty are carving out a space in the beauty industry where everyone, including Indigenous people, feels represented and seen while making a difference in the lives of youth through their scholarship fund. Businesses like Bangin’ Bannock not only share the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous cuisine but also provide access to nutritious, culturally relevant food options through community kitchens and wellness workshops. I am inspired by the resilience and creativity of my fellow Indigenous entrepreneurs and their commitment to building a better future for the next generation.
On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I urge you to join me in supporting Indigenous-owned businesses as a tangible and impactful act of reconciliation. By choosing to invest in and uplift Indigenous enterprises, we contribute to the collective healing and empowerment of Indigenous communities.
Maarsii,
Michelle Okere
Executive Director - Indigenous Prosperity Foundation