Following up on the previous post, To be a Hero, this plea is for the Australian Aboriginals' Stolen Generation. Shortly after the first settlers of the British Empire came to Australia, half-castes became a bane in British colonization. The mission was to 'breed out' the 'black' in the children and to bring them up as British servants, or, if they were 'white' enough, to be educated and became a member of the British society. Years after this plan was set in motion, the one-time settlers of Australia are requesting a public, heartfelt apology to the victims of the practice, by the government to the Aboriginal people.
After watching the movie "Rabbit-Proof Fence", it seems only appropriate that they should. Though their intentions might have been viewed as good in their eyes, it does not justify the fact they wrestled mothers and children apart forever, to live separate lives as the latter are taught to disregard their own religion and culture to embrace another, bewilderingly different, one. It doesn't explain away the fact they intentionally tried to 'breed out' the native genes in the children. It sounds like they've been selecting the type of fur they would like a certain breed of dog should have. Humans, no matter how different or 'inferior' they seem to you, are humans. Not animals.
The damage is done. The Stolen Generation is one thing that just cannot be given back. But making up for it is in just order. It's the least you can do after crushing the lives and hearts of the mothers you legally stole children from. Saying the words 'I'm sorry' won't be a satisfactory apology either. Actions speak louder than words.
Perhaps you can't give their children back, but you can certainly allow a little of their native homeland to become wild again. A little wilderness at your backyard can't hurt the scenery. And letting them take up their ways of life, culture, beliefs, could help. Reconnecting with your life hurts, but heals more than it kills. The memory of things done in bygone days revives a sense of homecoming, and brings one closer to their heritage. To their family.
An apology is in order. Make it count; this one's for the Stolen Generation.
Note: In Victorian times, the flower Rue signified the sender's regret.
