Paulette Regan

This was a difficult book to read, and, I imagine, a hard one to write. Paulette Regan has made an extensive study of decolonization writings and put them into practice in her work with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. It was interesting and instructive to read about her own experiences as a settler-Canadian as she came to terms with the shattering of the myth of Canadians as peacemakers in the context of the violence done to indigenous communities of Canada by the residential school system. Her book provides guidance in answer to the 'settler problem' of how do non-indigenous people make amends without perpetuating colonial attitudes of trying to fix things for the aboriginal population of Canada. Her advice is to listen, to review one's own actions in the context of what has gone before and to work towards challenging the myths and attitudes which pervade settler society.

"We bear witness, and in doing so, we accept responsibility for making change in the world...As allies, we learn to listen with humility and vulnerability to the history of dispossession, racism, and oppression that is still alive. We critically reflect upon these stories as a catalyst for action...We would work in solidarity with Indigenous people to restory the IRS history and legacy through ethical testimonial exchange and in public history and commemoration projects as part of national truth telling."… (plus d'informations)