Erasure of the Past – The systematic rewriting of indigenous history.

Erasure of the Past – The Systematic Rewriting of Indigenous History

“The true history of the land is not taught in our schools; it’s as though someone has taken a pair of scissors and cut out the history of the indigenous people.” – Suzan Shown Harjo, Cheyenne & Hodulgee Muscogee rights activist.

The Ongoing Struggle

Indigenous communities worldwide have long expressed concern over the lack of representation and understanding in their own history, a struggle that continues today. This issue has gained significant attention due to ongoing efforts to shed light on the erasure of indigenous perspectives and experiences.

The Influence of Colonialism

The roots of this problem can be traced back to colonialism, which often sought to extinguish native cultures through assimilation and the suppression of indigenous histories. This systematic erasure has left a lasting impact on how indigenous peoples are perceived and treated today.

The Importance of Accurate Historical Accounts

The importance of accurately representing the histories of indigenous communities cannot be overstated. Understanding these histories is essential for fostering respect, promoting cultural preservation, and working towards reconciliation between indigenous peoples and their colonizers.

Recent Efforts to Address this Issue

• Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada: The TRC was established in 2008 to investigate the impacts of residential schools on indigenous communities. Its final report, released in 2015, included over 94 recommendations aimed at addressing past wrongs and promoting healing.
• Aboriginal History Month: Canada officially recognizes Aboriginal History Month every June to celebrate and promote the histories, cultures, and contributions of indigenous peoples in Canada.

“If we can’t remember our past, we will not know where we are today or where we need to go tomorrow.” – Louise Bennett-Coverley, Jamaican poet, folklorist, and activist.