In all actions concerning children, whether undertaken by public or private social welfare institutions, courts of law, administrative authorities or legislative bodies, the best interests of the child shall be a primary consideration.

UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

The true measure of a nation’s standing is how well it attends to its children.

UNICEF

A child who lives with violence is forever changed, but not forever “damaged.” There’s a lot we can do to make tomorrow better.

Linda Baker and Allison Cunningham, Little Eyes, Little Ears

In Canadian society, we have normalized the risk to Aboriginal children. We no longer question the fact that 30% of the kids in Child Welfare care are Aboriginal, or that 50% of the young people who are being sexually exploited are Aboriginal . . . We have normalized it, which has taken away from the tragedy that it is. Each one of these young people should be given a full opportunity to make a difference.

Cindy Blackstock

I found a community that understood my pain and shame. It was a community willing to take me in, and teach me about my culture and heritage. I was accepted. I even got into an Aboriginal training program, partnered with a community college, and I got a diploma.

Kim Ghostkeeper

Particular attention shall be paid to the rights and special needs of Indigenous Elders, women, youth, children and persons with disabilities in the implementation of this Declaration. States shall take measures, in conjunction with Indigenous Peoples, to ensure that Indigenous women, and children enjoy the full protection and guarantees against all forms of violence and discrimination.

UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People