The way my teachings have been over the years, and my discussions and the work that I've done, have led me to this position. Of course, my preference for this day—and I'm biased—is for June 21, but when we talk about a bigger picture, I support a day.
That's because the elders have taught me, and the youth and the families throughout the years, that it is about history. Canada's history has not been kind to indigenous people. It is full of pain. It is full of broken promises. It is full of heartbreak. The elders who have taught me throughout the years have said, “Here it is; we have a chance to heal and come together.” Canada—Saskatchewan or whatever—has a chance to come together to create a new legacy, build relationships and move forward.
Many of the indigenous people and indigenous communities that I know of are saying that we look at our history and it is too painful. We need the help to heal with them. We need the help to work on these issues. We also have an opportunity to move forward together. That's what we're looking for. I know many professional indigenous people across Canada who are working really hard within institutions promoting that legacy.