Canada is geographically a beautiful country with so much abundance in its landscapes. Having experienced so much of it throughout my 25 years, there is a dark shadow cast over it as I have gotten older and it is an internal battle that I think will always be ongoing. There is no doubt that I have seen some incredible parts of our country, but there is so much hidden truth within the cracks of those places. The collage includes pieces of photographs I have taken through years of Canadian travel and camping trips. Trying to change my perspective, or as we have been encouraged to change our landscapes, including First Nations truth into 
them is a step toward shifting it.
The first photo is my family and I looking out at the mountains in Banff’s traditional land on Treaty 7 territory – where we actually were in that original photo. Next, I have spent time in Manitoba’s Parkland, but before my memories could be made there were First Nations children canoeing on Treaty 2 waters in Wasagaming, Manitoba. I grew up camping in Rushing River Provincial Park, Ontario on Treaty 3, so I have placed a tipi with a young child to represent the lives there before. Finally, a Metis family on Treaty 1 territory with a Red River Cart in Grunthal, Manitoba. I cannot help but feel guilty that I have experienced joy and beauty in the very places that others experienced betrayal and denial. The journey toward understanding Canada’s history and my identity within it will be a long, continuous one; like unpacking an invisible backpack. While there are fine lines I am learning to balance between being a proud Canadian and wanting to see change, I believe there is beauty in it as this effort is a step toward Truth and Reconciliation.