Victoria Event Highlights Indigenous Voices in Constitutional Talks

The Victoria Historical Society is set to host a significant talk focused on the inclusion of Indigenous voices in Canada’s constitutional discussions. This event, featuring Lorna Wanosts’a7 Williams, will take place on October 23, 2023, at James Bay New Horizons, located at 234 Menzies St. Williams will delve into the historical context of the Constitution Express, an initiative aimed at ensuring Indigenous participation in constitutional matters.

In 1980, during then-Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau‘s efforts to repatriate the Constitution from Great Britain, Indigenous leaders were notably absent from the discussions. In response, the Constitution Express emerged as a pivotal movement led by Indigenous activists. This initiative involved two passenger trains that transported these advocates to Ottawa, where they sought to assert their rights and demand meaningful inclusion in a process that deeply impacted their communities.

Lorna Wanosts’a7 Williams played a crucial role in this movement. As a professor emeritus of Indigenous education, curriculum, and instruction at the University of Victoria, she has dedicated her career to advancing Indigenous language revitalization and education. In 2020, she was appointed to the Order of Canada for her contributions to education and Indigenous rights.

During her talk, Williams will recount the experiences of those who traveled on the Constitution Express, highlighting their efforts to influence governmental policies that affect Indigenous populations. This narrative not only serves as a historical account but also underscores the ongoing importance of amplifying Indigenous voices in national dialogues.

The event will begin at 19:15 with coffee and conversation, followed by Williams’ presentation at 19:30. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with Williams and reflect on the enduring impacts of the Constitution Express on contemporary Indigenous rights and education.

This gathering promises to be a valuable occasion for those interested in understanding the historical and ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada, as well as the vital role of education in fostering a more inclusive society.