Here We are on Stolen Land, Your Homeland

Abstract

For thousands of years, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis nations have stewarded Turtle Island (AKA North America). Colonization on Turtle Island has not yet ended. In this prose, an immigrant of colour pays homage to Indigenous peoples, decolonization of the Global South and hopes for decolonization of Turtle Island. After hundreds of years of colonial violence, positive steps are finally being taken. In 2021, with the unearthing of children’s bodies at a residential school in Kamloops BC, the nation gasped at the genocidal actions by the Canadian state and Christian institutions. This led to a bold decision to cancel Canada Day in many jurisdictions and the declaration of the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th. In 2022, the Pope apologized for the Catholic Church’s active role in genocide, particularly through residential schools. This prose celebrates the healing and strength of Indigenous communities and their leadership in climate justice. The writer vulnerably requests open dialogue, acknowledging that many settlers of colour have not created relationships with Indigenous communities. Above all the prose speaks to the need for deep respect for the stewards of this Land.