[Name of MP]
House of Commons
Ottawa, ON
K1A 0A6
Dear ____,
I am writing today to express my thanks for your support of the Shannen’s Dream motion that
was passed in the House of Commons on February 27, 2012. I am pleased that this worthy
motion received unanimous support from all parties. I believe that the times we live in are rich
with opportunity for a new relationship between Indigenous people and non-Indigenous
peoples in Canada, and that achieving equity in education is an urgent and achievable step in
the process of reconciliation.
Many voices, including the Auditor General and the recent National Panel on First Nation
Elementary and Secondary Education, have made it clear that achieving reconciliation in
education should be a national priority, and will require significant funding. Your support for
the Shannen’s Dream motion affirms the importance of clear commitments and actions to
achieve reconciliation and equity in education.
The motion states that “the government should adopt Shannen’s Dream…committing to
provide the necessary financial and policy supports for First Nations education systems;
providing funding that will put reserve schools on par with non-reserve schools.” These
commitments are consistent with the recommendations of the National Panel on First Nation
Elementary and Secondary Education, and with the spirit of reconciliation and right relationship
expressed in the Prime Minister’s Apology to Survivors of Indian Residential Schools. It also
provides an opportunity to implement the government’s commitment to immediate steps for
education reform, as expressed at the conclusion of the Crown – First Nations Gathering in
January.
Your support, and the unanimous support of the House of Commons for the Shannen’s Dream
Motion suggests hope and momentum for reconciliation. Therefore, I urge you and your
colleagues in Parliament to follow these good words with action in commitments to reform,
reconciliation and mutual accountability in Indigenous education; and in specific planning and
funding measures to achieve equity in education.
Sincerely,