Author: Avi Abrams

Something to ponder I had the pleasure to meet with Roger Twance and Christina Apostolakis from Projets Autochtones du Québec, and here is some information about this wonderful organisation as well as ways to contribute to their mission. Projets Autochtones du Québec (PAQ) is a non-profit organisation committed to enhancing the well-being of Indigenous individuals in Quebec, including those who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless. Founded in 2004, PAQ caters to the cultural needs of...

Something to ponder Manifest Destiny is a concept invented by John O'Sullivan in July-August 1845. It refers to the view that the expansion of the U.S. over the American continents was morally right and bound to happen. Such beliefs have likewise exerted a substantial influence on Canadian history, molding the nation's policies and perspectives regarding territorial expansion and Indigenous peoples. In Canada, this ideology had a role in shaping the colonial mindset that rationalized the...

Something to ponder In order to celebrate National Indigenous History Month, I thought it could be interesting, and inspiring, to give a little taste of the rich and diverse Indigenous culture that is being created in our region. [Small disclaimers: 1. Because a lot of the websites were unilingual, I decided to avoid redundancy and only create a newsletter in English, containing links in English or French. 2. The following list is far from being exhaustive, and I will be happy to add all of...

Something to ponder The creation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in Canada was a significant turning point in the country's endeavor to acknowledge and rectify the deep-seated injustices suffered by Indigenous peoples, especially those who experienced the residential school system. The TRC, established in 2008, played a crucial role in the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement (IRSSA), demonstrating a shared determination to address a troubling period in Canadian...

Something to ponder Ensuring that every child has the chance to thrive is crucial when it comes to child welfare. This article explores two important topics: the application of Jordan's Principle to guarantee Indigenous children fair access to services and the continuous work to improve child welfare systems across Canada. A ground-breaking law known as Jordan's Principle aims to ensure that First Nations children receive the public services they require without delay. The concept bears the...