Shallow River of Tears: Canada's Stalled Paths to Reconciliation (Confronting Atrocity: Human Rights and Restorative Justice Series) - Softcover

Andrew R. Basso; Andrea M.L. Perrella

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0228026695 ISBN 13: 9780228026693

Publisher: McGill-Queen's University Press, 2026

Synopsis

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's final report marked a new moment in national consciousness: a recognition of Indigenous histories, an awareness of the injustices committed by Settlers and their governments, and an understanding of the need for redress and the restoration of rights. At the time, Settler populations largely voiced support for these recommendations and committed to a more just future; in the years since, words have eclipsed actions. In Shallow River of Tears Andrew Basso and Andrea Perrella mobilize four years of survey research to understand why Reconciliation has stalled. They draw from one of the largest databases of Settler attitudes to explain support for – and resistance to – what they term "Reconciliaction": real change that fosters individual and community success while remedying past and ongoing harms. The authors identify and analyze key stages preceding action on the part of Settlers: denial, recognition, sympathy, and empathy. These variables are measured against public opinion to offer a solid empirical foundation for effecting sociopolitical change and moving Reconciliation forward. Thoughtful and provocative, this book provides guidance for students, scholars, practitioners – indeed, all systemically empowered Settlers – so they may choose to act in support of Reconciliation and the second chance it provides.

About this title

About the Authors

Andrew R. Basso is an adjunct faculty member at Wilfrid Laurier University.

Andrea M.L. Perrella is associate professor of political science at Wilfrid Laurier University.

Edition details

• Publisher: McGill-Queen's University Press
• Publication date: 2026
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0228026695
• ISBN 13: 9780228026693
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 408