Abegweit First Nation chief says Canada has to reconcile its past – The Guardian

While Canada is considered one of the greatest countries in the world, it’s important to remember it’s far from perfect, and success often depends on the lens from which it is viewed, said the chief of the Abegweit First Nation.

Brian Francis, who spoke to a crowd of about 30 people plus delegates Wednesday night at Memorial Hall in Charlottetown, said that for many, confederation is considered such a success, but said not everyone feels that way.

“For the Indigenous population, including the Mi’kmaq who inhabited this island for 12,000 years, Confederation and colonialism had tragic consequences.”

However, he said, there is hope.

“There is hope that we can actually build upon all the positives that Canada has to offer, and create not just the best country in the world, but one in which we all live and prosper.”