“[R]econciliation is about establishing and maintaining a mutually respectful relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples in this country. In order for that to happen, there has to be awareness of the past, acknowledgement of the harm that has been inflicted, atonement for the causes, and action to change behaviour” (Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. 2015. Final Report, volume 1, pages 6-7). The Final Report goes on to note that these will not be easy tasks to accomplish nor happen quickly. Given that government acts through the institution of bureaucracy, it is worth asking, whether or not this institution will facilitate the completion of these tasks or serve as a barrier to them that must be overcome?
