(III) recognition: canada says “sorry”

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper last week acknowledged that indigenous cultures and beliefs were believed to be inferior and unequal, leading to forced placement of indigenous children in school in pursuit of assimilation. Pointing out that this treatment was a “sad chapter” in Canada’s history, Harper  said: “We now recognise that, far too often, these institutions gave rise to abuse or neglect and were inadequately controlled, and we apologise for failing to protect you.” And: “The government of Canada sincerely apologises and asks the forgiveness of the aboriginal peoples of this country for failing them so profoundly. We are sorry.”