The Importance Of Nationalism In Canada

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It has been an extensive journey for the Indigenous population within Canada. Although, research has not established whether they first inhibited Canada, they have resided in this country for longer than one could imagine. The challenges they faced have been unimaginable as well. From invasion of their land, to mistreatment, and the attempt to eliminate the aboriginal culture, they’re hardships are not yet over. Granted, the Canadian government has provided some assistance to the fixation of all complications for the indigenous, however, it has only scarcely improved conditions. To be considered “Indian”, the individual must be registered under the Indian Act, making them a Status Indian. Within this act, Indians are permitted to acquire certain …show more content…

They have different cultures, values, standards, norms and so one. However, all countries commonly share the concept of nationalism. This is a world view pertaining to national national identity along with it’s emotional investments. Nationalism also pertains to the national self-determinations achieved for by it’s members. It can also be understood as the patriotism citizens have for their nation. Although they may not know each other, there is still a sense of pride. In Canada, the Indian culture, itself, is a nation. These indigenous individuals have their own set of norms, standards, rules, and culture. However, this population is tremendously low compared to the rest of the country’s population. The western culture of Canada is the dominant national culture. Not to mention, it is also the conforming national identity of most Canadian individuals. In fact, this is to the point where the western Canadian government has the authority to make large-scaled decisions for the indigenous population. Wagamese writes that it is in the hands of the federal court of Canada to determine whether metis and non-status Indians should be considered Indians. The government governs and establishes, the so-called assistances the Indian population receives. They turned a beautiful peaceful nation into a political, complex, system. Ultimately, the government defines what it means to be Indian. The Indians themselves have little to no say. They’re national …show more content…

As they hold no power within a country composed of a prevalent nation, their identity is subjugated. Accordingly, the primary blame goes to the dominant nation’s nationalism, formation of imagined communities, and groupings of the “others”. Through this article, one can identify that Canadians believe they’re nation holds a certain precedence over others. It is crucial to grasp that the article itself was written by an indigenous man, therefore making it biased. In the eyes of a Canadian, one might say that Wagamese’s article is an exaggeration. However, ultimately the Indians are treated unequally. Increasing the Indian population will only result to higher percentages of struggling individuals. Hence, the federal courts elongated debate. In reality, rather then recognizing the non-status Indians and Metis as Indians, the government should provide adequate assistance. They should make Canadians aware of who the Indians really are, their true original identity as opposed to the identity constructed by the western nation. In doing so, the Indian nation will gradually begin to reconstitute. It will be the beginning of something new, something wholesome. Two nations living together serenely, under the same

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