Rising Waters; Falling Tears
Oakville, Canada
2021, Junior, Art
Reflection
Reflection
At school, I learned First Nations history. Everything they valued was taken away. Now, governments are slow to remedy those losses, especially when it comes to providing clean water. I created this piece to expose that reality. An Indigenous woman is crying. Her tears represent Earth’s waters that are spilling over with wastes, bacteria, viruses, and metals. I convey a sense of egregious injustice. In 2015, there were 105 boil water advisories for First Nations communities across Canada. Despite guarantees, fifty-eight remain active in 2021. We weep for those who suffer from contaminants. Behind the tears being shed, there is a shimmer of light: Optimism. Societies must face problems directly and act with a sense of urgency to stem rising tides of resentment. The First Nations face inequities now but there is a future without it. However, it must be seized soon. To start, I have to be part of the change by shining a light on the issue.