Statement Re: Canada Day 2021

Fogo Island Pride, as an organization who advocates for and supports all marginalized, vulnerable or otherwise disenfranchised peoples, stands in solidarity with those who have decided to modify, adapt or alter their Canada Day celebrations. In true spirit of reconciliation, we believe the ongoing (and past) uncovering of abuse, neglect and murder of hundreds of Indigenous children at the hands of our nation’s Residential School System warrants a day of sombre, purposeful reflection.  

It is important for us to acknowledge that this is not ‘new’ information. Indigenous elders and community leaders have been telling us this history for years. We need to listen. We need to act. We need to do better. 

We know that we will never truly understand the impact of the generational trauma suffered by Indigenous people at the hands of our nation’s government and religious institutions. However, we must recognize that it is our collective responsibility to bring equity and justice to a systemically racist, colonialist system which continues to oppress this land’s first people. 

We encourage all Fogo Islanders to forgo the typical fun and festivities associated with Canada Day. This is not a ‘typical’ year. Restoring a broken relationship begins with the acceptance of harm done. This is our opportunity to accept that the privileges we enjoy each and every day have been at the expense of others. 

That we are willing to listen. To act. To do better. 

Call to Action:
​
Fogo Island Pride respectfully requests that you spend Canada Day learning about and reflecting on the atrocities of our nation’s residential school system. That you seek out ways to support and advocate for the Indigenous peoples of Canada.