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Decentralized Democracy

Senate Bill

Bill S-274

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
September 21, 2023
National Thanadelthur Day Act
  • This bill, called the National Thanadelthur Day Act, designates the 5th day of February each year as "National Thanadelthur Day." Thanadelthur was a young Denesuline woman who played a crucial role in the fur trade in the early 1700s. She helped make peace between the Denesuline and Cree peoples and her story sheds light on the important contributions of Indigenous women. National Thanadelthur Day is not a legal holiday.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman Argument in Favor of Bill S-274: An Act to establish National Thanadelthur Day One could argue that the establishment of National Thanadelthur Day is an important step towards recognizing and honoring the contributions of Indigenous women in Canadian history. Thanadelthur's story of bravery and determination sheds light on the early years of the northern fur trade and highlights the crucial role she played in facilitating peace between the Cree and Denesuline peoples. By designating the 5th day of February as National Thanadelthur Day, Canada would be acknowledging the historical significance of Thanadelthur's actions and the impact they had on the Cree, Denesuline, and the Hudson's Bay Company. This recognition can help educate Canadians about the often overlooked contributions of Indigenous women in shaping the nation's history. Furthermore, establishing a national day dedicated to Thanadelthur can serve as a symbol of reconciliation and promote a greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures and histories. It can be seen as a step towards healing the wounds caused by the hostile relationships between Indigenous peoples and the fur trade in the early 1700s. National Thanadelthur Day would also provide an opportunity for communities across Canada to celebrate and honor the resilience, strength, and leadership of Indigenous women. It can serve as a platform for Indigenous voices to be heard and for their stories to be shared, fostering a sense of pride and empowerment among Indigenous communities. In conclusion, the establishment of National Thanadelthur Day through Bill S-274 would be a meaningful and necessary step towards recognizing the contributions of Indigenous women in Canadian history, promoting reconciliation, and celebrating the diversity and richness of Indigenous cultures.

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman Argument Opposing the Establishment of National Thanadelthur Day: While recognizing the historical significance of Thanadelthur's role in the fur trade and her contributions to peace between the Cree and Denesuline, there are several reasons to oppose the establishment of National Thanadelthur Day. 1. Limited Historical Significance: While Thanadelthur's story is undoubtedly important, it is just one of many stories from Canada's history. By singling out Thanadelthur for a national day, we risk overlooking the contributions of other individuals and groups who played significant roles in shaping our nation's history. 2. Government Overreach: The establishment of National Thanadelthur Day represents yet another example of government interference in the lives of its citizens. Rather than allowing individuals and communities to celebrate and commemorate historical figures and events in their own way, the government is imposing a specific narrative and celebration upon the entire country. 3. Cultural Division: The designation of National Thanadelthur Day may inadvertently perpetuate divisions between Indigenous groups. By highlighting the conflict between the Cree and Denesuline and emphasizing Thanadelthur's role in mediating that conflict, we risk reopening old wounds and exacerbating tensions between these communities. 4. Distraction from Current Issues: While it is important to remember and learn from our history, it is equally important to focus on the present and future. By dedicating a national day to Thanadelthur, we may be diverting attention and resources away from pressing issues facing Indigenous communities today, such as poverty, education, and healthcare. 5. Symbolic Gesture: Establishing National Thanadelthur Day may be seen as a mere symbolic gesture that does little to address the systemic issues faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada. Rather than focusing on symbolic acts, the government should prioritize concrete actions and policies that improve the lives and well-being of Indigenous communities. In conclusion, while Thanadelthur's story is undoubtedly significant, the establishment of National Thanadelthur Day raises concerns about government overreach, cultural division, and the potential distraction from pressing issues facing Indigenous communities today. It is important to approach the commemoration of historical figures and events with caution and ensure that it is done in a way that respects the diversity and complexity of our nation's history.

Senate Debates

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
April 16, 2024

Senate Debates

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
November 30, 2023

Senate Debates

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
September 21, 2023
Senate Second Reading
  • Sept. 19, 2023, 2 p.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read
Senate First Reading
  • Sept. 19, 2023, 2 p.m.
  • Passed

Senate Debates

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
September 19, 2023