The Colonial Playbook, Part 1 of 3 (Closed Captioned)

Summary

This video script addresses the dark history of Canada's residential schools, where indigenous children were subjected to abuse and many died. It discusses the discovery of unmarked graves and the ongoing systemic issues faced by Indigenous people, including the foster care crisis. The script challenges the notion of these atrocities being 'mistakes,' emphasizing they were part of a deliberate colonial plan. It also highlights the government's past and present tactics to control Indigenous communities, as well as the resistance and calls for true reconciliation.

Takeaways

• ⚠️ The script begins with a warning about the disturbing nature of the content, indicating the severity of the historical events discussed.
• 🕍 The remains of 215 children were found at a former residential school in British Columbia, highlighting the tragic legacy of these institutions.
• 🌐 The issue of residential schools is deeply connected to ongoing systemic issues faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada.
• 🏛️ The Canadian government was aware of the existence of unmarked graves at residential schools as early as 1914 but took no significant action.
• 🧔 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's statement about not fighting Indigenous kids in court contrasts with the reality of ongoing legal battles.
• 📜 A 1970 memo from the Department of Indian Affairs reveals a covert strategy to continue colonial policies against First Nations, despite public rejection.
• 🏢 The script discusses the historical roots of Canada's colonial policies, tracing back to the racist views of founder John A. Macdonald.
• 📚 The book 'Red Skin, White Masks' by Dene scholar Glen Colthard is mentioned as a significant work in understanding Canada's colonial politics.
• 🔍 The script points out the continuity of colonial tactics in modern policies, suggesting that the same strategies are used to control Indigenous Peoples' finances, territories, and rights.
• 🤝 The narrative emphasizes the importance of truth and acknowledgment of past atrocities as a prerequisite for reconciliation.

Q & A

What was the initial warning given by Dennis Ward in the video?

Dennis Ward warned that the information presented in the video may stir up or trigger unpleasant feelings or thoughts.

How many children's remains were found at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School?

The remains of 215 children were found at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia.

What is the significance of the number 215 in the context of the video?

The number 215 represents the number of children's remains found at the Kamloops Indian Residential School, highlighting the devastating impact of the residential school system on Indigenous communities.

What is the connection between residential schools and colonialism as discussed in the video?

The video connects residential schools to colonialism by illustrating how these institutions were part of a broader system designed to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture, thereby eroding their cultural identity and heritage.

What does the term 'genocidal machine' refer to in the context of the video?

The term 'genocidal machine' refers to the residential school system, which was created with the intention of assimilating Indigenous children and, in the process, causing significant harm and death, effectively contributing to cultural genocide.

Why were the unmarked graves at residential school sites not considered 'discoveries' by survivors?

The unmarked graves were not considered 'discoveries' because survivors of the residential schools had known about them for decades, and their existence was a confirmation of the horrors they had experienced or heard of.

What did the Canadian government know about the graves at residential schools as early as 1914?

As early as 1914, the Canadian government was warned about abandoned cemeteries containing children from residential schools, indicating that they were aware of the existence of these graves for generations.

What is the 'colonial playbook' mentioned in the video?

The 'colonial playbook' refers to a set of tactics and strategies used by colonial powers, including Canada, to maintain control over Indigenous populations, such as taking away resources, opportunities, and families, and implementing policies that continue to marginalize these communities.

What was the White Paper proposed by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau in the 1960s, and how was it received by Indigenous groups?

The White Paper proposed by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau in the 1960s aimed to assimilate Indigenous peoples into Canadian society by abolishing special status and rights. It was met with strong opposition from Indigenous groups, who called it 'cultural genocide' and led to its rejection.

How does the video suggest that colonial policies continue to this day in Canada?

The video suggests that colonial policies continue in Canada through covert tactics and strategies, such as the 1970 memo from the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, which proposed continuing the agenda of the White Paper covertly, and through various legislative attempts to control Indigenous finances, territories, rights, and governance.

What is the significance of the orange shirt mentioned by Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Carolyn Bennett?

Minister Carolyn Bennett's mention of wearing an orange shirt on Canada Day is a symbolic gesture acknowledging the harm done to Indigenous children in residential schools. The orange shirt has become a symbol of the movement to remember and honor the children who suffered and died in these institutions.

Outlines

00:00

😢 Uncovering Canada's Dark History

The script begins with a somber warning about the disturbing nature of the content, which revolves around the tragic discovery of 215 children's remains at the site of a former residential school in British Columbia. It delves into the painful legacy of Canada's residential schools, which were part of a systemic approach to assimilate Indigenous children, leading to abuse and loss. The script emphasizes the intentional nature of these policies, refuting the notion that they were mere mistakes. It also touches on the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities, such as the fight against the Canadian government in court over the welfare of Indigenous children. The narrative calls for truth and acknowledgment of past atrocities as a prerequisite for reconciliation.

05:04

🔍 The Persistent Shadow of Colonialism

This paragraph continues the exploration of Canada's colonial past, highlighting the ongoing impact of historical injustices on contemporary Indigenous communities. It discusses the residential schools as a tool of cultural genocide, where children were forcibly removed from their families and subjected to abuse. The script points out the continuity of colonial tactics in modern policies, such as the overrepresentation of Indigenous children in the foster care system and the attempts to control Indigenous finances and governance. It also reveals a 1970 memo that suggests the Canadian government's covert continuation of colonial policies despite Indigenous opposition. The paragraph concludes with a call to action, urging a rejection of the colonial playbook and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of past and present injustices.

Keywords

💡Residential Schools

Residential schools were institutions established in Canada to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture. These schools, often run by religious organizations, removed children from their families and communities, leading to cultural disruption and significant trauma. The script references the discovery of unmarked graves at the sites of these schools, highlighting the dark history and ongoing impact of this policy.

💡Systemic Issues

Systemic issues refer to deep-rooted problems within a society that are perpetuated by systemic structures, such as policies, institutions, and cultural norms. In the script, the discussion of residential schools as the root of many systemic issues faced by Indigenous people today underscores the ongoing effects of historical injustices on contemporary social problems.

💡Colonialism

Colonialism is the practice of a powerful nation exerting control over less powerful nations or territories. The script uses this term to describe the historical and ongoing policies and practices that have subjugated Indigenous peoples in Canada, including the establishment of residential schools and the broader impact on Indigenous communities.

💡Genocidal Machine

The term 'genocidal machine' is used in the script to describe the residential school system as a deliberate and systematic effort to destroy Indigenous cultures and peoples. It emphasizes the intentional nature of the harm caused by these institutions, rather than viewing them as the result of mere mistakes or oversights.

💡Reconciliation

Reconciliation is a process of healing and rebuilding relationships between parties that have been harmed or wronged. In the context of the script, it refers to the efforts to address the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada, including the legacy of residential schools, and to forge a new, more equitable relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians.

💡Unmarked Graves

Unmarked graves are graves without any form of identification or marker. The script discusses the discovery of such graves at former residential school sites, which serves as a stark reminder of the lost lives and the hidden atrocities committed against Indigenous children.

💡Cultural Genocide

Cultural genocide refers to the deliberate destruction of the cultural heritage of a group, often as part of a broader campaign of oppression. The script mentions the term in relation to the rejection of the White Paper proposed by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, which Indigenous groups saw as an attempt to assimilate them and erase their cultural identity.

💡Indigenous Peoples

Indigenous peoples are the original inhabitants of a geographic area who have a historical continuity with pre-invasion and pre-colonial societies. The script focuses on the experiences and struggles of Indigenous peoples in Canada, particularly in relation to the residential school system and ongoing colonial policies.

💡Foster Care Crisis

The foster care crisis refers to the disproportionate number of Indigenous children in foster care and the associated issues of abuse, neglect, and poor outcomes. The script draws parallels between the historical removal of Indigenous children to residential schools and current practices in the foster care system, suggesting a continuity of colonial policies.

💡Covert Tactics

Covert tactics are hidden or secret strategies used to achieve a goal without drawing attention. The script discusses how Canada has used covert tactics to continue colonial policies against Indigenous peoples, such as the 1970 memo that proposed continuing the agenda of the White Paper through less overt means.

💡Indian Act

The Indian Act is a set of laws in Canada that have historically governed various aspects of the lives of Indigenous peoples, including their legal status, land rights, and governance. The script mentions attempts to circumvent the Indian Act as part of Canada's colonial playbook, indicating ongoing efforts to control and limit Indigenous rights and autonomy.

Highlights

The remains of 215 children were found at a former residential school in British Columbia.

The work around residential schools is the root of many systemic issues Indigenous people face today.

The Canadian government has known about abandoned residential school graves for generations.

At least 750 unmarked graves have been found at the Cowessess Residential School in Saskatchewan.

Unmarked graves were confirmations of what survivors had already known for decades.

The Canadian government was warned about abandoned cemeteries containing children from residential schools as early as 1914.

Canada's colonial present can be traced back to its founder, John A. Macdonald, and his racist policies.

Colonialism is not just historical; it's alive and living today, forming the foundation of Canada.

Residential schools were not intended to create an equal footing for all people; it was a deliberate plan.

APTN Investigates unearthed a confidential memo detailing Canada's intent to continue colonial policies against First Nations.

A 1970 memo from the Department of Indian Affairs proposed covert continuation of the White Paper's agenda.

Since 2005, at least 47 statues and bills have attempted to circumvent the Indian Act to control Indigenous Peoples.

Dene scholar Glen Colthard's book 'Red Skin, White Masks' sheds light on Canada's colonial politics.

Canada's colonial tactics continue to be covert, aiming to delay and deny Indigenous justice.

The Wet'suwet'en blockade breach by the police is an example of the colonial playbook in action.

The residential schools were part of a genocidal plan to get rid of Indians, not a mistake.

Efforts were taken to conceal the truth about residential schools, including by the RCMP and churches.

Transcripts

Dennis Ward: “We want to begin with a warning tonight.

Some information may stir up or trigger unpleasant feelings

or thoughts.”

Paula Newton: “The remains of 215 children.”

Pamela Palmater: It was devastating to know that there's 215.

Kisha Supernant: The work around residential schools is the root of so many

of the other systemic issues that Indigenous people face today.

You don’t just, “Oops!

I created a genocidal machine known as residential schools.”

There's a lot of thought, planning, processes.

Aliqa Illauq: That's colonialism.

Daniel Heath Justice: Taking away resources, taking away opportunities, taking away families.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau: “We are not fighting Indigenous kids in court.”

Cindy Blackstock: And yet, that next week, we were going to Federal Court

to defend children against the Government of Canada.

Veldon Coburn: This is exactly according to the colonial playbook.

We now know their plays.

How do we respond now?

It is often said that truth must come before reconciliation.

And less than six months ago, on the grounds of the former Kamloops

Indian Residential School, Canada was delivered a difficult dose of truth.

“The remains of 215 children were found

at a former residential school in British Columbia.

The Sioux Valley Dakota Nation in Manitoba.”

And quickly, the numbers of lost ancestors on former

residential school grounds continued to be counted.

“At least 750 unmarked graves have been found

at the Cowessess Residential School in Saskatchewan.”

These unmarked graves were not discoveries, however, they were confirmations.

Confirmations for what survivors had already known for decades.

The Canadian government has also known about

abandoned residential school graves for generations.

As early as 1914, the government was warned about

abandoned cemeteries containing children from residential schools.

One in Battleford was said to contain the bodies

of 70 to 80 mostly former students.

So, here we are,

the Mohawk Institute, Canada's first established residential school.

My great aunt and uncles went here.

They all suffered abuse here.

And I'm here to remember.

And there's a whole new generation of people remembering and reminding.

But it begs the question, how could Canada

forget this?

Ahead of Canada Day,

Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Carolyn Bennett

commented on the confirmations of unmarked graves

And she did what many Canadian officials have done in her place.

She reflected.

“Understanding that harm was done.”

She apologized.

“That we’re sorry.”

She made promises to make things better, and made a symbolic gesture.

“On Canada Day, I wiill be wearing an orange shirt.

And I, I do think that lots of people feel that

that would be the appropriate thing to do.”

And continued to uphold Canada.

“As well as celebrating

the best country in the world,

but,

that made some very terrible mistakes.”

But it wasn't a mistake.

There is no mistake about it. It was intentional.

It was deliberate and willful.

So, Minister Bennett is wrong on that.

These are not schools where people were sent to become university professors,

or to become mathematicians, or to become engineers.

It was never intended to create an equal footing for all people.

And, so, it's not a mistake.

It was a plan. And it was a very deliberate plan.

And if we don't acknowledge that plan, then we can never move past it.

University of Ottawa historian Timothy Stanley can trace the origins of Canada's

colonial present to one of its founders, John A. Macdonald.

Stanley shares how Macdonald's racism rocked the house in 1885.

He's the only person in the House of Commons in the Senate

who actually uses the term Aryan during this time.

So, his idea is that Canada should be founded by a pure Aryan race as well.

Stanley says that MacDonald integrated his ideas

about racial superiority in a way that hadn't been done before.

What he's doing, he's the first person, as far as I know, in the British Empire,

to take biologically defined notions of race and make them into law.

But our national mythology is that he's the founder

of this multicultural, tolerant Canada.

So, to me, in 1885, John A.

Macdonald is really inventing a Canadian white supremacy.

Colonialism is not just something from the history books.

It's alive and living today.

The foundation of the very house of Canada.

I think that Canada is socializing

its citizenry into

thinking that we're in an era of reconciliation and nation-to-nation.

But at the level of practice that is not true.

Look at what happened in residential schools.

They stole our children.

Put them into residential schools in the care of someone else

where they were abused and many didn't make it out alive.

What's happening in the current foster care crisis today?

Stealing our children, putting them in the care of other people

where statistically we know they're far less likely to graduate from high school.

They're far more likely to be sexually abused, physically abused,

end up in youth corrections, end up living on the streets,

and more likely to be incarcerated as an adult or live in poverty.

So there really isn't a policy that you can point to from the past

that doesn't continue today, perhaps even under a different name.

APTN Investigates has unearthed the confidential memo

that details Canada's intent in continuing colonial policies against First Nations.

This 1970 memo from the Department of Indian Affairs

and Northern Development noted the “unanimously unfavorable”

rejection of Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau's White Paper,

which Indigenous groups at the time called “cultural genocide.”

Despite this,

David A. Monroe, assistant deputy minister, proposed furthering the agenda of the

White Paper covertly through “a change in tactics, strategy, or policy content”.

Monroe's idea was to unpack the White Paper

into smaller parts, to “adopt” different tactics,

but not to “depart from its essential content.”

You can see how Canada's colonial tactics continue to be covert.

According to a Queen's University study, since 2005, a list of at least 47 statues

and bills have attempted to circumvent the Indian Act to control the finances,

territories, rights and governance of Indigenous Peoples.

Canada's tactics, you could argue, are part of a colonial playbook.

A playbook designed to delay and deny Indigenous justice.

Dene scholar Glen Colthard has been at the forefront

of countering Canada's colonial playbook.

His foundational 2014 book, “Red Skin, White Masks”,

shed much needed light on Canada's colonial politics.

When we focus on residential schools or we focus on

any singular aspect of this process, it doesn't give the the broader picture.

When the recognition, like the offering of certain sort of gifts

or trinkets or whatever, doesn't placate Indigenous Peoples,

it doesn't function in the way to pacify our resistance,

you'll always see the hammer come down.

And that's the Wet'suwet'en, breach of the blockade by the cops

and the extraordinary force that they used is an example of that.

This is exactly according to the colonial playbook.

We now know their plays.

How do we respond now?

And one of the things is not accepting what they've

continually done over generations and hundreds of years.

Well, we know residential schools wasn't a mistake.

You don’t just, “Oops!

I created a genocidal machine known as residential schools.”

There's a lot of thought, planning, and we know what the final solution was.

It was to get rid of Indians.

And how could you say that?

All of these kids are dying

is the “final solution”

and not think that that was an intentional genocide

when their own lawyers were saying, you know what?

You're coming dangerously close to a charge of manslaughter here.

So, everyone knew what was going on, including the RCMP, including the churches.

And that's why such great efforts were taken to conceal it all.