As we celebrate Truth and Reconciliation Day, Algonquin Elder Carol McBride is entering her second week in retirement from her role as President of the Native Women’s Association of Canada, but was on the job in October of 2022, when NWAC fought for, and won an amendment to secure at seat on the Council for Reconciliation, which is in the process of being formed.
Carol began her political career as a Councillor with Timiskaming First Nation (TFN) in Northwestern Quebec. After two terms she was elected the TFN’s first Chief.
During her tenure in office, Toronto City Council was contemplating a proposal to ship its trash northward and dump it in the abandon Adams Mine, on the Ontario side of Timiskaming. Carol was Chief when the TFN was accorded a place at that table- a move pivotal to the defeat of the trash scheme.
Carol McBride later served two terms as the first woman Grand Chief of the Algonquin Nation, a body representing the ten communities it comprises.
In her recent capacity as President of the Native Women’s Association of Canada, there has been much progress in advancing the cause of Indigenous women and two-spirited persons.
But as with any group liaising with a settler body, those at the other end of the table have a tendency to render only lip-service to their commitments.
This one specific, self-proclaimed advocate, is unfortunately not unique.
It is said that ever since the British Royal Proclamation of 1763, there has been a special relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Crown.
On Friday, September 20th of 2024 Carol McBride was in Quebec City, and one of 59 persons to receive a special award bestowed by Governor-General Mary Simon.
Deeming the moment the pinnacle of a long and meaningful career, Elder Carol McBride leaves NWAC in trusted hands, (succeeded by Alberta’s Josie Nepinak).
Her intention is to devote more time to her four grandchildren and family.
As someone recognized by the British Crown for her work on Reconciliation, we ask Elder McBride for her thoughts this day.
We must come to understand “decolonization” to be more than jargon.
The elder believes the onus is threefold.
As did wampum serve as both currency, and commitment; reconciliation requires resources.
Carol McBride is glad Canada has set aside this day for a purpose; use it.
Written by Rick Stow