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November 22, 2008 8:45:19 CST

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Canada Apologizes to Indigenous Groups

Posted Jun 12, 08 4:42 CDT in World 

(Newser) – Canada formally apologized to its indigenous peoples yesterday for forcing children to attend government-run schools where they were often sexually and physically abused. Prime Minister Stephen Harper read the apology in Parliament, calling the forced assimilation a "sad chapter" in the nation's history that damaged several generations, the Globe and Mail reports. "I am sorry Canada tried to erase your identity and your culture."

“In separating children from their families, we undermined the ability of many to parent their own children and sowed the seeds for generations to follow, and we apologize for having done this," the prime minister said. "These institutions gave rise to abuse or neglect and were inadequately controlled, and we apologize for failing to protect you."

Source Globe and Mail

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Eldest surviving residential school victim Wabano Marguerite shakes hands with MP Joe Comuzzi following Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper's official apology.   (AP Photo/Pool, The Canadian Press, Chris Wattie)
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and other politicians give Chief Phil Fontaine an ovation as he responds to an official apology for Canada's treatment of indigenous nations.   (AP Photo/Pool, The Canadian Press, Chris Wattie)
Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl take part a traditional ceremony after an official apology by the Canadian government.   (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Fred Chartrand)
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Canada • sexual abuse • Stephen Harper • compensation • physical abuse • House of Commons • Inuit


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