Recognizing the week of September 30th as National Orange Shirt Week or National Week of Remembrance, which aims to honor those who were forced to attend Indian boarding schools, and to recognize the experience of Indian boarding school victims and survivors.
Summary
House Resolution 794 aims to recognize the week of September 30th as National Orange Shirt Week or National Week of Remembrance. This week is intended to honor those who were forced to attend Indian boarding schools and to acknowledge the experiences of victims and survivors. The resolution acknowledges the historical assimilation policies, including the Indian Boarding School Policies, and their lasting impact on Indigenous communities.
Expected Effects
The resolution's passage would formally recognize a period for national reflection and remembrance. This could lead to increased awareness and support for initiatives addressing the intergenerational trauma caused by these policies. It may also encourage further investigation and documentation of the historical injustices.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of the history and impact of Indian boarding schools.
- Validation and support for survivors and their families.
- Potential for increased funding and resources for healing and reconciliation efforts.
- Promotion of cultural understanding and sensitivity.
- Encouragement of further investigation into the full extent of the boarding school system's impact.
Potential Disadvantages
- The resolution is symbolic and does not allocate funding or create new programs directly.
- Potential for political polarization if the historical narrative is contested.
- Risk of performative allyship without concrete action.
- May not fully address the complex needs of all affected communities.
- Could be seen as insufficient without accompanying legislative or policy changes.
Constitutional Alignment
While the Constitution does not explicitly address historical acknowledgements, this resolution aligns with the general welfare clause of the Preamble. It seeks to "promote the general Welfare" by addressing historical injustices and supporting affected communities. The resolution does not infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).