The history behind colonization explained in an online town hall.
Fort Frances Councillor Doug Judson hosted the event as the town is asked once again to change the name of Colonization Road.
Jeff Denis, a professor of sociology at McMaster University, says the term itself is about exploitation and dominance.
“Asserting control over them and trying to erase their cultures, their economies, their governance system, and replace them with the colonizers’ way of life.”
Local educator JoAnne Formanek Gustafson says the word needs to go.
“I don’t want that word anymore…let’s put it that way. I think we really need to be very particular about what we’re endorsing here, and I don’t think anyone wants to endorse a process that was intended to exterminate people.”
Panellists did express confidence that the town will do the right thing and change the name.
The town’s discussion on the proposed road change is heading to two committees for a review.
