On September 2023, two Indigenous women, Lorraine Rekmans, and Marlene Hale penned a letter to His Majesty The King, the Governor General of Canada, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. This letter calls for the issuance of a new Royal Proclamation, to reset the relationship between Canada and Indigenous Peoples. The letter is based on a recommendation that was made in the Royal Commission on Aboriginal People (RCAP) report of 1996.
The Context: A Long-Awaited Repudiation
The letter incorporates the significant announcement by Pope Francis on March 30, 2023, where he officially repudiated the “Doctrine of Discovery.” This doctrine, historically used to justify the colonization and dispossession of Indigenous lands, has long been a source of contention and pain for Indigenous communities. The Pope’s repudiation is a cause for celebration and a hopeful sign of change.
A Call for a New Royal Proclamation
The letter emphasizes the importance of this moment in history, in this era of Truth and Reconciliation, urging the Canadian government to seize this opportunity to issue a new Royal Proclamation. RCAP, advocated for a new proclamation to redefine and strengthen the relationship between Canada and Indigenous Nations. It’s a recommendation that needs to be implemented to ensure Canada takes a true nation-to-nation approach in its dealings with the original Indigenous Nations.
Why This Letter Matters
- Recognition of Sovereignty: The letter underscores the need for full recognition of the sovereignty, rights, and titles of Indigenous Peoples. It is a call to honor the original Nations of these lands and to move towards a fair, just, and peaceful coexistence.
- Historical Significance: The proposed new Royal Proclamation would invoke the Royal Proclamation of 1763, which recognized Aboriginal title and governance. This historical reference is crucial in reaffirming the commitment to mutual respect and trust.
- A Step Towards Reconciliation: With Canada’s adoption of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and its commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, this letter represents a timely and judicious step towards healing and building a better future for all Canadians.
Moving Forward
This letter is more than just a petition; it is a beacon of hope and a call to action. It invites the Canadian government and its leaders to take meaningful steps towards reconciliation and to create a new era of mutual respect and partnership with Indigenous Peoples.
Let us reflect on this request for a new Royal Proclamation and the potential it holds for shaping a more inclusive and just Canada. The journey towards reconciliation is long, but with steps like these, we move closer to a future where all nations can walk side by side in harmony.