Some of the original treaties with our indigenous peoples were based on the Two Row Wampum. The Two Row Wampum symbolized two nations traveling side by side respecting each other and cooperating when it was to the benefit of both parties.

Subsequent treaties were based on destroying that concept. Then came the attempts at assimilation (eg residential schools).

We who were brought up on European values had no right to try to impose those values on another culture. Using religion to effect that only exacerbated the issue. Canadians values should not mimic European values. Rather we Canadians should set our own course.

Symbolic of doing would be for the next Governor General to be indigenous and to be chosen by the indigenous nation.

Bill Moses
Owen Sound