Their Voices
They try to silence
the voices
the voices that tell the truth
They try to squash
the stories
They try to rewrite
the histories
They try to erase
their lives
They took away
their freedom
their choices
their futures
But truth cannot be silenced
Not forever
Unmarked graves will be found
Their stories will be told
Their truths will be shared
Their lives will be celebrated
and mourned
and remembered
Their potential was erased
Their loss is uncountable
But they have not silenced their voices
Those who will listen
Will always hear
***
Some parts of Canadian history are horrific. Residential schools aimed to destroy indigenous cultures and people. Unmarked graves in multiple sites have been found. It's a hideous part of our history and something we have to acknowledge. We can't go back to fix the mistakes of the past, but we can acknowledge them and offer reparations and work to ensure nothing like this happens again.
The freedom to speak, the freedom to live and thrive, the freedom to be, was taken away from so many kids. I hope it never happens again. I know I can't fix the world, but I'll continue to work on my own little corner of it. It's the least we can do.
***
The above is part of the WEP Challenge - although it's not an actual part of the challenge. One reason is that I'm offering the prize this month. The second reason is, I'm now a part of the WEP team!! I'm thrilled to be joining this talented and lovely group of writers!
Please check out this link to find the stories that are actually part of the challenge. WEP is always a good place to stretch your skills. I'm excited to work with the winner and to be part of the team in the future!
