Building a new relationship between Indigenous peoples and Canada requires an understanding of our history, not just among academics and politicians, but among all the people who live in this country.

Understanding and knowledge lead to respect and empathy. Respect and empathy bring people — and peoples — closer together.

The Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples is studying the relationship between Indigenous peoples and Canada, with the intention of establishing what a new relationship might look like in the future. But before this work can take place — and to understand the nature of the current relationship — it is essential to take a frank look at how cruel and racist policies did incalculable damage to Indigenous peoples.

To that end, the committee heard evidence from a wide range of Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples and undertook fact-finding missions to learn from people in their own community. The committee is privileged to have had this opportunity to hear so directly the stories that have shaped the relationship between Indigenous peoples and Canada.

The committee’s interim report, How Did We Get Here? A concise, unvarnished account of the history of the relationship between Indigenous peoples and Canada, is the result of this work. It was released April 11, 2019 together with an easy-to-follow timeline that captures the key moments that led to this complicated relationship.

To promote a greater understanding of the history of this relationship, the committee will send copies of the report and timeline to ministers of education across the country. Committee members believe the timeline, in particular, will be a valuable learning tool for children of all ages and that it may assist in establishing a firm foundation for a new relationship.

Quick Facts

• The content of this report comes from over 50 witnesses, including Elders, youth and academics, who shared stories and historical insights with the committee. Senators also undertook fact-finding missions to Indigenous communities.
• First Nations, Inuit and Métis each have different relationships with the Crown. The report is organized by Indigenous groups to illustrate the range of experiences and to provide space for their diverse voices. These groups have all suffered under government policies meant to control and disempower them.
• This interim report is the conclusion of the first phase of the committee’s study. The committee is already working on the second phase, which will focus on the vision for and principles of a new relationship. A report on this aspect is expected in June 2019.

Quotes

“The history between Indigenous peoples and Canada is the history of exploitation, dehumanization and institutionalized racism. This colours the relationship that exists today. By examining this history, we will gain a better sense of how this relationship can be improved in the future.”

- Senator Lillian Eva Dyck, Chair of the committee

“The true value of this report will only become clear in the years to come. If we can get this report — and particularly the timeline — into the hands of Canadian school children, we will have helped to foster respect and empathy in a new generation.”

- Senator Scott Tannas, Deputy Chair of the committee

Associated Links

• Read the interim report How Did We Get Here? A concise, unvarnished account of the history of the relationship between Indigenous peoples and Canada.
• Follow the committee on social media using the hashtag #APPA.
• Sign up for the Senate eNewsletter.

For more information, please contact:
Sonia Noreau
Public Relations Officer
Communications Directorate |Senate of Canada
613-614-1180 | sonia.noreau@sen.parl.gc.ca