Article By: Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU(W) Program Officer*

In the ongoing journey toward Truth and Reconciliation in Canada, the stories of Indigenous people serve as powerful reminders of resilience, strength, and the need for healing. Capt Lisa White and Lt(N) Keith Diakiw stand as proud representatives of their Inuit and Métis heritage, embodying their families' collective struggle against Canada's painful history with the residential school system and the 1885 North-West Resistance. Through this shared experience, Capt White and Lt(N) Diakiw provided RPOU(W) with an informative presentation to recognize the significance of Truth and Reconciliation Day.

Capt Lisa White's connection to her heritage is deeply personal. Her grandmother, a survivor of the residential school system, instilled in her a profound understanding of the pains and traumas embedded within their culture. These narratives suggest the legacy of residential schools designed to erase Indigenous identity, and culture has not defeated or deterred them. Instead, it has ignited a determination to reclaim and celebrate it. Previously, Lisa had taken an active role in advocacy work related to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls movement, as well as the administration of a National Scholarship that supports Aboriginal students who pursue post-secondary education.

Similarly, Lt(N) Keith Diakiw draws inspiration from his 4th-great-grandfather, Joseph Ouellette, who at the age of 92 was killed in action on 12 May 1885 during the Battle of Batoche. Like Louis Riel, they, and many others gave their lives in the fight for Métis rights that helped bring about our long-awaited self-determination of today. His grandfather's resistance against attempts to erase Métis culture serves as a beacon for Keith, guiding him in his commitment to uphold and promote Indigenous cultures as a member of the Defence Indigenous Advisory Group (DIAG). Through Keith’s “Talking Rock Tours” initiative, he provides guided educational experiences through the lens of science and history and the interconnectedness of the Land to its’ First Peoples.

The legacy of residential schools in Canada is a dark chapter in our history. In Alberta alone, 25 out of the over 130 residential schools operated during this era, highlighting the systemic efforts to "kill the Indian in the child." The impact of these institutions has left deep wounds in Indigenous communities, requiring seven generations to heal from the trauma inflicted upon them. Lisa and Keith emphasize the importance of recognizing and celebrating Indigenous identities, fostering pride in heritage rather than shame. By sharing their experiences, Lisa and Keith aim to raise awareness about the uncomfortable truths of Canada's past and advocate for meaningful conversations around reconciliation.

The path toward reconciliation is long and challenging. Still, with leaders like Capt Lisa White and Lt(N) Keith Diakiw paving the way, there is hope for a future where Indigenous cultures are respected. The wounds of the past can begin to heal. By sharing these experiences, we can create a more inclusive society where every child can celebrate their identity and heritage with pride. Let the healing begin.

CHIMO

* DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this article are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the author or the CMEA.