Billa Hissein

My turtle island – Reflections on equity and respect

by Billa Hissen


My Turtle Island is about equity. A Turtle Island where the human rights and dignity of Indigenous, Black, and racialized peoples are respected and realized. Where everyone is meaningfully represented in all spheres of our society.
A Turtle Island where societal attitudes, laws, and policies facilitate prevention efforts, holistic care, treatment, and support. A Turtle Island where our government takes meaningful and concrete actions to repair and mend their relationship with our First Nations.
I envision a government that is beyond lip service. A government that does not only acknowledge it has and continues to perpetuate systemic and institutional racism, some through loud and violent actions and others through silence and inaction.
I envision a government that not only engages in difficult discussions but in practical and active actions to dismantle and rebuild systems and institutions of oppression, as well. Today and every day, we remember the ones who we’ve lost.
Today and every day, we remember to celebrate the obstacles we’ve overcome and the strides we’ve made.
Today and every day, we remember when perspectives unite, together we can change the world.
And finally, today and every day we remember, even when given bad soil, life persists for we are bound together in care.
Let us walk through this threshold and step into a new time.

My name is Billa Hissein Habré. I am a 25-year-old student at the University of Ottawa, studying Criminology and Gender studies. I deeply enjoy expressing myself through theater, painting, 0writing, and sports. I aspire to be an advocate for the African, Caribbean, and Black communities. As well as a practical and sincere ally to the Indigenous community. Furthermore, I strive to devote myself to the true emancipation and liberation of our people.