Canada Artistic Swimming (CAS) is on a learning journey. On the eve of the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, CAS wishes to issue an apology to the athletes and the Indigenous community in Canada for a routine performed at the FINA World Trophy competition in Montreal in 2009. This routine, titled Cowboys and Indians, included elements of racial discrimination against members of the Indigenous community as well as cultural appropriation including makeup and costuming. CAS is truly sorry for any harm this routine caused or continues to cause.
“To continue our learning, and as the CEO of Canada Artistic Swimming, I am inviting our team and the Artistic Swimming community to spend tomorrow reading and reflecting on Indigenous history with me. It is our responsibility to learn about the Indigenous past in Canada and about the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, particularly calls to action 87 to 91 related to sport, so we can be part of moving reconciliation forward alongside Indigenous leaders in Canada. We know that our past behaviour has not been appropriate, particularly the 2009 FINA World Trophy routine, and we apologize,” acknowledges Jackie Buckingham, CAS CEO.
“Here is a link to information that I will begin with to continue my journey of knowledge: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/culture/history-heritage/indigenous-history.html“
On this occasion, CAS is making a donation to the Aboriginal Sport Circle for Indigenous sport development.