Statement from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre on the Anniversary of the Apology to Former Students of Residential Schools
Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition and the Conservative Party of Canada, released the following statement on the Anniversary of the Apology to Former Students of Residential Schools:
“On this day in 2008, Prime Minister Stephen Harper delivered a long-awaited apology to the Indigenous community, finally acknowledging the government’s role in the Residential School system which, in Harper’s words, ‘was wrong, has caused great harm, and has no place in our country.’
“For over a century, motivated by the desire to assimilate Indigenous peoples and destroy their cultures, thousands of children were torn from their families and stripped of their language and traditions.
“Over 150,000 children went through the system, far too many did not return. Those who did often carried lasting trauma from the abuse they suffered.
“Today is an opportunity to reflect on this painful history, to listen to survivors and remember those who did not make it home.
“His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition is committed to reconciliation and ending the ‘Ottawa-knows-best’ mindset, working toward a Canada where Indigenous peoples live with the freedom and respect they deserve.”