Lawyer Sees Importance In Reconciliation For Municipalities

A Thunder Bay lawyer sees changing monuments and signs as a good place for municipalities to start to create good will among Indigenous people. Chantelle Bryson says many under estimate the value in making such a change, noting it can help in the discussion with First Nations communities over more larger issues. “When you have a reservoir of good will built up, and you feel like allies, you’re going to have better conversation. You’re going to reach better resolution.” Bryson also encourages all levels of government to better understand Indigenous issues such as the impact of residential school system and ’60s Scoop. “It’s really important in your work place at public servants and public officials to proactively engage in that so you can actually represent all of the people in your community and you can build relationships Indigenous communities for economic development.” She says it’s time to give up the Colonial dream and dive into mutual respect of shared sovereignty. Bryson adds we need to find a way of working together for our mutual benefit and to honour the Treaties.