a day ago
15 Indigenous People's Feelings About Canada Day
Every country has a complex history as civilization evolves, and Canada is no exception. Although some work has been done in the past few years to reconcile for our ancestors, there is still SO much to be done today.
With Canada Day coming up, Reddit user Middle-Computer-2320 asked, "Indigenous People of Canada, how do you feel about Canada Day, especially this year?" — referring, of course, to Canada's newfound sense of national pride amidst Trump's quest to make us the 51st state. Here's what people are saying:
"Mixed feelings, but I try to enjoy celebrating it. Better than being American."
"I used to. Then I read about everything that happened in residential schools. I looked at the history of Canada and found things that don't add up. At the same time, I was asking my parents about my family on both sides and started figuring out who I really am. I no longer consider myself a part of it (I don't think I ever was), and it's just a regular day like any other."
"FYI, as someone who's Metis and lived on a reserve for a while, it's really only the vocal minority of Indigenous people who hate Canada and refuse to celebrate Canada Day. There are way more white liberals who hate Canada than Indigenous people."
"Yes, I celebrate. As an echo, as something wholly Canadian. This is Canada — defined by quiet strength, compassion, and the courage to stand apart, something you built and were willing to share."
"Never really celebrated it, but I will this year. I have a lot of issues with this country, but I'm able to recognize the good things and that it's overwhelmingly better than the mess that is the US."
"I celebrate Canada Day every year, it's my birthday after all."
"I'm Indigenous and my partner is Metis. We celebrate Canada Day every year, but we're celebrating the land we live on and the country rather than the government."
"This year, I'll put up a Canada flag again. I did stop flying it after crazy people started co-opting it for convoys and politically charged reasons."
"We don't really celebrate Canada Day in the traditional sense, but the children in our family understand what it is. We don't fly flags or wear anything too loud. But I still get the kids glowsticks, we will attend the various gatherings happening in our city, and watch the fireworks. Not because it's Canada Day, but because it's fun for the kids."
colorful fireworks at the dark sky
"We'll see how reconciliation goes in a couple of months. That'll have a lot to do with how I feel about Canada."
"I have no real issues with the current nation. Obviously, it's not perfect, but it is worlds better than the current US situation. Obviously, the government's actions in the past have been horrendous, but I believe that we're on the right track."
"I celebrate because it's fun. Many, many don't."
"I'm Métis and have gone up and down on it. But this year, hell yeah! History is complex, and I can see why some would not. This is just my personal stance, but I respect those who choose not to!"
"I'm Indigenous and I've celebrated Canada Day every year except once. Many Indigenous people are proud Canadians."
"I celebrate Canada Day. Yes, Canada is not perfect, but what country is? Also, I refuse to take the blame for the sins of others."
Canada flag in the middle of tree blossoms
In the comments, I'd love to hear about how we can make Canada a better place — a place of inclusion, respect, reconciliation, and peace.
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