When the Town of St. Paul first announced that it would host a meeting on systemic racism, perhaps there were a few concerns about what the discussion might bring and how such an explosive talk could be facilitated in a productive, meaningful way.
However, with Saddle Lake’s Carl Quinn taking the reins in a calm and effective manner, the first discussion at St. Paul’s Reunion Station managed to steer those turbulent waters. Many First Nations people stood up to give voice to anger and frustration as they recounted experiences and brushes with racism, but the discussion stayed respectful. But the true impact of that first talk could not be seen until a month later when the second meeting took place, last Thursday at the Recreation Centre.
Some came back for the second talk, but they were joined by new faces and voices. The discussion evolved, with acknowledgment of some of the issues faced by both the communities of Saddle Lake and St. Paul, and further concrete steps that might be taken to address a history of conflict, whether it was a walk taken together or a symbolic feather in St. Paul businesses.
A few people spoke to mistrust or skepticism about the meetings, dubious that a small group getting together once a month could affect community-wide change. Well, the saying often goes that a journey of a 1,000 miles begins with one step, and while oft-quoted, it is no less true.
Even if they didn’t say a word, the people showing up at these meetings spoke volumes, simply with their presence. They expressed a willingness to be part of a conversation or further, to acknowledge that racial tensions exist and they were ready to be part of a solution. These meetings create a venue to hear about some of the good projects and work taking place, and to make allies that will build bridges and ultimately, form a stronger community.
It’s no easy or overnight process, but this is where truth and reconciliation begins.
