Confronting Our Colonialism
This video was presented on the unceded territory of the Secwepemc Nation, at the Thompson Rivers University Undergrad Research Conference on March 28, 2014. This video was created for an assignment for an Anthropology class called "Canadian Status/Treaty Indian Reserve Communities."
I asked viewers three questions. 1) Why is the process of apologizing so uncomfortable? 2) What makes an apology meaningful? 3) How will you continue to seek understanding?
Here are some of the answers I received...
1) Why is the process of apologizing so uncomfortable? Admits my wrong, It can be awkward, Because we hate the people we have harmed - we are reflections of each other, Because I'd have to own the history I'm embarrassed of and deal with all of the implications, Because who wants to look at their own shame, Because we have to be sincere about our regrets for wrong actions, It makes me aware of ignorance, Because you have to admit you are wrong.
2) What makes an apology meaningful? Action, Action, Sincerity x2, Understanding, Love, Recognize it may take more than one, Thoughtfulness, Doing not just saying.
3) How will you continue to seek understanding? Ask questions, Through knowledge, By asking questions, By never saying never, Stand up & speak -- educate others.