CANADA
Metro News
By: David P. Ball
Metro
Published on Wed Mar 29 2017
The co-chair of the reconciliation fund set up by Tragically Hip frontman Gord Downie has joined outcry over a Senator’s praise for the “good” side of Indian residential schools.
Edmonton-based Charlene Bearhead — with the Downie and Wenjack Fund created by the singer to channel donations in support of Indigenous/non-Indigenous projects — told Metro that Sen. Lynn Beyak’s controversial remarks (see sidebar) are a reminder that Canada “still has a long way to go” in addressing its history.
“Comments like this Senator’s are a big, firm slap in the face,” said Bearhead in a phone interview.
“You don’t have to look very far to know ignorance is still alive and well.
“But they remind us to wake up and not be complacent. You can start feeling really good about the progress we’re making … But when people in positions like that still can’t humble themselves and open their minds, hearts, eyes and ears to reality, it’s a reminder that we still have a long way to go.”
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