Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff made the following statement on the opening of the public hearings on stories of abuse at residential schools today:
“Two years after the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada was borne out of the residential schools agreement and apology in the House of Commons, public hearings will finally begin – marking a watershed moment for this country.
“Headed by the Honourable Justice Murray Sinclair and advised by the Indian Residential School Survivor Committee, the Commission continues the process of healing for thousands of Aboriginal peoples, whether First Nations, Métis or Inuit. Through the telling of their stories and the review of thousands of documents, the residential school legacy will be known to all Canadians – so that Canada, as a whole, can participate in the healing.
“The compelling desire by all is to give a voice to the victims and their loved ones – past and present – so that we can, together, work towards a stronger and healthier future for all Aboriginal peoples, and all Canadians.”
Liberal Aboriginal Affairs Critic Todd Russell added:
“The truth and reconciliation process is so important as a holistic and comprehensive response to the tragic residential school legacy. Although it is about moving forward and paving new roads, its overall objective is not to bury the past – rather, it is to recall what happened so that we may learn from that past. We must never forget the horrific abuse and injustice suffered by Canada’s Aboriginal children – and it must never be repeated.”
