There is a strong heritage of hospitality within the Indigenous community of Canada. Unfortunately, too often, those stories are not told. It was inspiring to hear David Johnston, Governor General of Canada refer to this Indigenous hospitality today. He stated,
"Of course, our history of welcome predates the existence of Canada itself.
The settlers at Port Royal, in what is now Nova Scotia, would never have survived their first winters in the early 1600s were it not for the generosity and guidance of Indigenous peoples.
Our history is full of such stories of diverse people helping each other through hard times."
In my research of First Languages and Identity, I propose that in the process of supporting Refugee & Immigrant Settlement to Canada, perhaps Canadians can find a way to build a more prosperous and successful relationship with Indigenous people of Canada. By continuing to become a more inclusive and adapted community, accepting of Refugees & Immigrants, Canadians can become more inclusive and understanding of Indigenous people. Let's continue the dialogue Canada!
For more information regarding Refugee & Immigrant Settlement, contact Cynthia Penner at:
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