We have much to learn about Indigenous Peoples

By Muneeb Nasir

(Remarks by Muneeb Nasir, President of the Olive Tree Foundation, at program entitled, ‘Indigenous And Muslim Traditional Healing Practices In A Modern Context’ on November 14 2019, at Victoria College, University of Toronto).

The Olive Tree Foundation is pleased to be a sponsor of tonight’s program on Indigenous and Muslim Traditional Healing Practices in a Modern Context.

As settlers on Turtle Island, I believe we have much to learn about right relations, reconciliation and the rights of Indigenous Peoples and their traditions.

I would like to suggest that tonight’s gathering be accepted as a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #48 which urges religious communities to:

‘Engage in ongoing public dialogue and actions to support the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.’

Tonight, we will be learning and experiencing the healing practices in Indigenous and the Muslim communities and as learners, we should seek and accept such invitations to be part of discussions that help us to understand more deeply how to respect each other’s traditions.

We must move to a position where we acknowledge the historical and current injustices of our Indigenous sisters and brothers, educate ourselves about their histories and practices, including healing practices and become their allies.

We pray for the understanding and peaceful resolution of issues affecting Indigenous communities and peoples.

I thank Emmanuel College and its Centre for Religion and Contexts, for hosting us and I thank the organizers and sponsors for organizing this event.

Megwetch.

*Photo (l-r): Indigenous Traditional Healer, Sheikh Abdalla Idris Ali, Moderator, Dr. Katherine Bullock and Dr. Fatima Uddin.