Introduction: reconciliation and museums

The preservation and maintenance of Canadian indigenous peoples' languages and cultures are highly related to the process of reconciliation in Canada. Reconciliation is defined as “establishing and maintaining a mutually respectful relationship between indigenous and non-indigenous peoples in this country. In order for that to happen, there has to be awareness of the past, an acknowledgement of the harm that has been inflicted, atonement for the causes, and action to change behavior” (The Truth and Reconciliation Commission, 2015, p.6). One central means to present and revitalize the cultures of indigenous people to achieve the reconciliation is the establishment of museums in Canada. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action #67 to #70 focuses on the important role of museums in presenting the Canadian indigenous peoples’ cultures, and calls upon the collaboration between museums and the Aboriginal people to achieve reconciliation on culture. On this basis, the following Exhibit will explore the role of the museums in Canada in the reconciliation process related to the preservation and maintenance of the Canadian indigenous peoples’ cultures, by arguing the museums’ crucial role and positive contribution to the issue, stating some potential controversy relating to this thesis and responding to those disputes, as well as reflection on this exhibit.