16d ago in Native Ways
Why Every Child Matters is Important in Indigenous Communities?
"Every Child Matters" is more than just a slogan; it is a powerful reminder of a painful history and an urgent call to action for truth, healing, and respect. In Canada and other countries with Indigenous populations, "Every Child Matters" is part of the more significant movement for reconciliation, aiming to honour the lives lost in residential schools, acknowledge the trauma inflicted on Indigenous families, and support the well-being of current and future generations. The significance of this movement resonates deeply within Indigenous communities as they seek to heal from the past and protect their children's future!
A Brief History of Residential Schools
Between the late 19th century and 1996, more than 150,000 Indigenous children in Canada were forcibly removed from their families and placed in residential schools. The goal of these schools, primarily run by the Canadian government and various churches, was to assimilate Indigenous children into Western culture. This often involved banning Indigenous languages, practices, and beliefs while subjecting children to harsh discipline, neglect, and, in many cases, physical and emotional abuse.
The impact was profound. Not only were these children stripped of their culture and family ties, but they were also robbed of their childhoods, with many enduring severe trauma. Thousands of children never returned home, and their families were left with unhealed wounds that continue to affect Indigenous communities to this day. The discovery of unmarked graves at former residential school sites has brought the harsh reality of this history back into the spotlight, underscoring the need for acknowledgment, education, and healing.
What "Every Child Matters" Means Today
"Every Child Matters" was first popularized through Orange Shirt Day, an annual event that began in 2013. Phyllis Webstad, a residential school survivor, shared her story of having her new orange shirt taken away on her first day at a residential school, symbolizing the loss of identity and dignity experienced by so many Indigenous children. Today, the orange shirt symbolizes resilience, and "Every Child Matters" has evolved into a rallying cry for justice, remembrance, and action.
"Every Child Matters" represents the belief that every child deserves love, respect, and the opportunity to thrive. It is a commitment to ensuring that future generations of Indigenous children do not face the injustices of the past. By wearing orange and participating in events that support this cause, we are saying we stand with Indigenous communities, support their healing, and demand change to protect the rights of all children.
The Importance of Education and Awareness
Why is education around "Every Child Matters" so important?
History can only stop repeating itself if we fully understand it. Education on residential schools and Indigenous history is critical, not only for Indigenous people but for all Canadians. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) established 94 Calls to Action, many of which focus on educating the public about the reality of residential schools, Indigenous history, and the importance of honouring Indigenous cultures.
Studies show that many Canadians still lack a deep understanding of residential school history. According to a 2021 survey, only 49% of Canadians felt they understood what happened in residential schools. This knowledge gap means there is a lot of work to do to raise awareness and foster understanding. Teaching children and adults about this history in schools, workplaces, and public spaces is an essential step in creating a society that values and respects Indigenous people.
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Why Every Child Matters is Important in Indigenous Communities?
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