Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Bloc Québécois, I rise to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
As we all know, reconciliation means bringing together what was divided. However, in a colonial context, that unifying bond never existed. To build that bond, we need to truly connect with one another as trusted equals. That is the key to ensuring the vitality and sustainability of this relationship.
For this trust to exist, it must be deeply rooted in the truth. It is only by learning about and acknowledging our history, as painful as it might be, that we can dispel mistrust.
Truth and reconciliation: These two words need to actually mean something. They need to lead to change and show our resolve. We cannot champion truth and reconciliation on one hand, while advancing a bill such as Bill C-39 on the other.
In closing, I hope that this day will remind us not only of our duty to indigenous people and humanity but also to life itself.
Tshinashkumitin.