Since I came back from living abroad 15 years ago, I have not felt proud to be Canadian or even understood what it means to be Canadian. I noticed how disrespectful Canadians are to their indigenous people. In all the countries I visited I was able to celebrate those countries native tongue, culture and food and feel welcome. It was not the case here I felt great shame and made an effort to get to know and make friends with 1st nations people. It has been very difficult but I am proud to call many 1st Nation's people my friends . I have started learning Mohawk online. My dream on my return was to dance in the pow wow every year which I have done In Kahnawake Echoes of a proud nation and to see my son play Lacrosse on a Kahnawake team which he did for over 2 years. Being British born I knew that my son had to prove his worth to his Mohawk, Iroquois, Cree team mates and his tough coach Dirt & his son Jamie McComber. He gained their respect which has given me much pride. The point I wish to make to all those kind confused Canadians is that reflection is good but it changes absolutely nothing. Reach out and embrace the way of life, culture , language and food of Canada's 1st and only nation and be thankful that they continue to take care of this land. We all need to contribute to making these people strong again and ensure that they have homes with running water that are suitable for people to live in especially up north . Find something you can do to put these wrongs right and if we all do something a less arrogant Canada can be celebrated for being more respectful and protective of our First Nations Indigenous People.