Aboriginal populations are growing, with 4.3 per cent of Canadians reporting to be of Aboriginal identity compared to only 3.8 per cent in 2006. The Stats Canada survey showed the Aboriginal population accounted for 11.3 per cent of Saskatchewan.This number seems quite significant because as a country, government and society, I think, for the most part, we fail this population.Graduation rates amongst aboriginal students are staggeringly low compared to non-aboriginal students; hundreds of missing aboriginal women go without discovery (or attention) and the native languages and cultures are ignored by a number of school divisions throughout the province. We need to work more diligently as a province and as a people, to integrate aboriginal teachings into North American culture. We must work toward bridging the gap between aboriginals and non-aboriginals. The key to unlocking misunderstanding, prejudice and discrimination lies within communication and education. Growing up in a city, I was exposed to living, working and studying with people of varying ethnicities and cultures. Despite the multiculturalism that surrounded me, I admittedly never had much interaction with aboriginal peoples or the culture, until moving to Grenfell, Sask. With four First Nations within close proximity, I was fortunate enough to experience some of the tradition and culture; learning about sweat lodges, listening to an elder's opening prayer or indulging in some of the tastiest bannock. But with all spirit that I observed, came the ugly curtail of harsh criticism and hateful comments. Our society preaches anti-racism, but it can be heard, whether it's in the snicker of an imitated accent or complaint of "government handouts". Disgracing one person, based on the group, based on the colour of their skin, the way they speak or what they believe is discrimination and I think a lot of people need to recognize and realize that. We may have some differences, whether it's complexion, culture or customs, but we should be entitled to the same respect. This generation must take responsibility to learn and understand the history of our country and its people; the challenges that were faced, and are faced, by the aboriginal population. We must take it upon ourselves to change with the times, and not be so narrow-minded. National Aboriginal Day will be held on June 21, giving all people across Canada the opportunity to learn, embrace and recognize the diverse culture of First Nations, Metis and Inuit people across our country. Government policy, financial compensation and formal apologies will only go so far. We must take responsibility and give 100 per cent to the 11 per cent that make up this province. It's only fair. It's only just.
