The exhibit focuses on the positive contribution of Indigenous Peoples to the development of Canada’s history, culture, and identity. First Nations, Métis, and Inuit, are referred to as Indigenous Peoples and are the original inhabitants of this land, having lived here for thousands of years before it became what we now call Canada. These communities are diverse, with groups such as the Blackfoot, Cree, Dene, and many others, each with their own unique cultures and histories.
Although much of what we know is the trauma and hurt that Indigenous Peoples experienced and still continue to even today which is what they call generational trauma because of how they were stripped off of their culture. Starting with the passing of the Indian Act, then the Residential Schools that have a purpose of “to kill the Indian out of the child.” This is a part of Canada's history that we still continue to heal from this day.
While we acknowledge this painful part of our history we must also celebrate the great contributions Indigenous Peoples had to Canada over the years. Indigenous people have been an essential part of Canada in shaping its heritage and culture from then until now. From the land they have lived on that they have nurtured and know how to live on despite the extreme weather conditions we have and the arts and cultural practices they share[1]. This exhibition not only shows their influence as a whole but will even show real life examples and stories of people who have made great contributions to what Canada is now for example, those who joined the military to fight for World War 1, Indigenous leaders who have fought for Indigenous rights and, those who played a key role in helped guide this country before and also those who continue to now.
[1] Daniel J.K. Beavon, Cora Jane Voyageur, and David Newhouse, eds., Hidden in Plain Sight: Contributions of Aboriginal Peoples to Canadian Identity and Culture, vol. 1 (Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 2005), 17.