It described them as "citizens minus." Hawthorne attributed these conditions to years of bad government policy, especially the Indian residential school system, which failed to provide students with the necessary skills to succeed in the modern economy. Hawthorne said that all forced assimilation programs, such as the residential schools, should be abolished, and that Aboriginal peoples should be seen as "citizens plus", and given opportunities and resources for self-determination.
It characterized them as "citizens minus." Hawthorne attributed these conditions to decades of flawed government policies, particularly the Indian residential school system, which inadequately equipped students for success in today's economy. Hawthorne stated that all forced assimilation programs, such as the residential schools, should be terminated, and that Aboriginal peoples should be viewed as "citizens plus," and provided with opportunities and resources for self-determination.