Indigenous Peoples Day & the United Church

 

A year ago today we were visiting Haida Gwaii, the island archipelago off the coast of British Columbia. It was a deeply meaningful experience to be there at the summer solstice and on Indigenous Peoples Day in what we call Canada. We spent time at the Haida Heritage Centre and came upon an event for school children where we were invited in. The energy amongst these kids celebrating their Indigenous heritage was delightful. 

Haida Gwaii was subject to colonization and attempts at cultural extinction,as was the case for so many Indigenous groups across the continent. Despite all the efforts by the Church, in cahoots with the State and the Crown, to erase Haida identity the past 60 years has seen a resurgence of creativity and spirituality, along with governance, that is a marvel. 

Today we can all take time to celebrate Indigenous identity and to repent of colonial misperceptions and attitudes. This past week Ontario Premier Doug Ford made blatantly false anti-Indigenous comments that were shocking. He has since apologized but his belligerence  with First Nations who aren't falling into line with his development "vision" for land under treaty rights is disturbing. 

I just finished the historical yet also fantastical novel The Antidote by Karen Russell which explores what happened to the Pawnee people of the American West when settlers arrived in waves. There is a postscript with the title Land Loss Acknowledgement, a turn of phrase which hit home. Many United Church congregations include a Land Acknowledgement recognizing tradtional territories of Indigenous peoples on Sundays. We do so without a clear outlook on reparations or return of the land.  

How can we make a difference today and during this month? There are symbolic and practical ways to practice Truth and Reconciliation. 

This morning we paddled on the Bay of Quinte, actually"Kenhtè:ke" (Kente), the Mohawk name for the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory translated as "on the bay"  We made our way along the shore to the territory and took a few moments to recognize where we were, who was here first, and who is still here.

A reminder as well that there is a new Mohawk translation of the bible   “Ohiatonhseratokenti”, financially supported by the United Church. It is shown here beside the historic bible from the inaugural service of the United Church 100 years ago. It is now the official Union bible of the United Church. 

Here is a summary of actions recommended by the United Church. Once again I'll mention that our United Church Crest has been changed over time to include traditional Indigenous colours of the four directions and the Mohawk phrase"Akwe Nia'Tetewa:neren" or "all my relations." 

• National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21):

  This day is a time to recognize and celebrate the diverse cultures, languages, and contributions of Indigenous peoples in Canada. 
• National Indigenous Peoples Month (June):

  The entire month of June is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating Indigenous peoples and their history. 
• Indigenous Day of Prayer:

  Traditionally, the Sunday before National Indigenous Peoples Day is observed as Indigenous Day of Prayer by the United Church, acknowledging the diverse gifts of Indigenous peoples. 
• Reconciliation:

  The United Church of Canada is actively engaged in reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, acknowledging the lasting impacts of colonization and working towards justice and equity. 
• Celebrating and learning:

  The church encourages participation in Indigenous Day of Prayer and National Indigenous Peoples Day, including learning about Indigenous cultures, histories, and perspectives. 
• Actions:

  Individuals and communities are encouraged to take specific actions to celebrate and recognize these occasions, such as participating in local events, learning from Indigenous voices, and supporting Indigenous-led initiatives.