I am proud to be a Canadian but I am also taking this day to remember that this place we call Canada was called home by many long before July 1, 1867.

My friend’s Facebook post sums up how I’ve been feeling and shared here with permission.

“I think it important, especially given all that is going on, to highlight that today is a day the British parliament declared a self governing federation. There were indigenous people here before the four colonies came together. They were organized societies who were not conquered. It is for this reason that they hold special rights in our Constitution and why the Government of Canada has had a policy recognizing the inherent right of self-government. And why it is so important for us to actively work to figure out better ways to live together on this land that we now share. Sending love to my indigenous friends today for whom this day may not be one of celebration.”