Indian Agent; Villan or Hero?

INDIAN AGENT; VILLAN OR HERO?

Recent lottery winner, Anne Wabung, was re-united with her daughter Grace after more than 30 years of separation. The government of Canada's policy on Indians during the 1950's forced Ms.Wabung, like many Indian mothers, to have her child taken from her. Ms.Wabung blames the tragedy on an Indian agent that was sent to inspect her home only to find it was not a suitable environment for her child (Grace).

Before we let our emotions cloud our rationale we must realize that the Indian agents of the 1950's, in many cases, had substantial motive to remove young native children from their homes on the reserves. Many native families lived in poverty and had to struggle with substance abuse and crime that polluted the reserves. It was the responsibility of the Indian Agents to re-locate native children from their broken dysfunctional homes on the reserves to safe and responsible homes in Canadian society.

The Indian Agent who took Ms.Wabung's daughter was only acting in the best interest of the child. Grace, like many native children, was moved to a welcoming home. She was properly clothed, fed and enjoyed the luxuries of her new family. She attended school and went onto university; a far cry from the lifestyle of the reserve.

Anne Wabung's daughter Grace was given the chance at a life filled with opportunity, and for this it is my opinion that Ms. Wabung should be grateful to the Indian Agent and the government of Canada.