Seek a formal apology from the provincial government for the legacy of harm that resulted from the exclusion of Indigenous Peoples in the Terms of Union with Canada in 1949. Such an apology must be drafted in full collaboration with all Indigenous groups in the province, including urban Indigenous people, and should become a foundation for establishing a renewed relationship between the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and Indigenous Peoples in the province.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has yet to suggest any intention to make a formal apology for the legacy of harm resulting from the exclusion of Indigenous Peoples in the Terms of the Union with Canada in March 1949. 

Opera on the Avalon & First Light: Partners on project, helps inform public

Opera on the Avalon produced a project called 75×75, a multidisciplinary project marking the 75th anniversary of Newfoundland and Labrador’s confederation with Canada, at which time Indigenous Peoples were excluded from the Terms of the Union. Five of the videos published as a part of this project are focused on Indigenous perspectives of confederation and explicitly acknowledge the exclusion of Indigenous people in the process of confederation. First Light was involved in the production, providing space for filming, transportation, cultural support to participants and logistical support for community participation.

For the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador:

• Convene Indigenous organizations and governments, including urban Indigenous organizations like Friendship Centres, to discuss the approach and desired outcomes for such an apology.