Introduction

In a thought-provoking speech delivered in December in Toronto, author and political commentator David Frum addressed the contentious topic of "settler colonialism" during an event hosted by the Canadian Institute for Historical Education. This talk has since been adapted into an article for The Atlantic, where Frum contributes as a staff writer. With a notable background as a former aide to U.S. President George W. Bush and chairman of the U.K. think tank Policy Exchange, Frum’s insights offer a nuanced perspective on a term that has evolved into a political weapon in contemporary discourse.

Frum's Insights

During his discussion with the National Post's Rob Roberts, Frum emphasized that while the term "settler colonialism" accurately reflects Canada's historical foundations—rooted in European colonies and settler movements—it has been weaponized to insult and marginalize those it targets. "Nobody likes to be insulted," he stated, highlighting the term's transformation into an epithet that resounds negatively with many people.

Historical Context

Frum argued that the term's use is not limited to Canada; it can similarly apply to countries like Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. He pointed out that the United States also began as a collection of colonies predominantly populated by settlers, alongside a significant portion that included enslaved individuals. This acknowledgment is vital in understanding the historical context, even if it complicates the narrative.

Academia and Simplification

However, he raised concerns about the impact of academia on this discussion. He characterized many modern academic circles as blending scholarship with activism, creating concepts that simplify complex realities into a binary framework of oppressor versus oppressed. This dichotomy, according to Frum, can lead to dangerous oversimplifications that ignore the intricate tapestry of history and its implications.

Misuse of Language

Frum’s critique extended to the modern application of the word "genocide," suggesting that its misuse could dilute the actual historical atrocities faced by Indigenous peoples. He stressed that while violent conflicts and terrible injustices occurred, particularly during the European conquest of North America, the word "genocide" carries significant weight and should not be misapplied in contemporary contexts.

Legal Measures and Discourse

He also engaged with the implications of proposed laws, such as the potential banning of "residential school denialism," expressing skepticism about their efficacy. He cautioned against legal measures that could suppress healthy discourse, emphasizing the importance of open conversations about Indigenous policies without the fear of criminal repercussions.

Understanding Pre-Contact Societies

When asked about the fixation on the first contact in historical discussions, Frum lamented that such a narrow focus can distort the understanding of pre-contact societies. He likened it to discussing European history without acknowledging the ongoing conflicts and changes that define it. This approach can fetishize bygone societies, leading to a glorification that fails to recognize the realities they faced.

Clarity in Dialogue

Reflecting on societal reactions during pivotal historical moments, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and its intersections with social justice movements, Frum observed that there has been a significant swing in discourse. However, he remained optimistic, quoting the Latin proverb, "Truth is mighty and will prevail," asserting that clarity and truthfulness in dialogue are ultimately essential.

Middle East Context

Finally, Frum expressed concerns about the term "settler colonialism" within the context of the Middle East, calling its application there actively harmful. He argued that a historical understanding of the Jewish connection to the land has been obscured by contemporary political narratives, pointing out that the region’s history has been characterized by cycles of empires and self-governance rather than a simplistic view of colonization.

Conclusion

In Frum's view, exploring history should equip us to navigate today’s issues without being trapped by the burdens of the past. He called for a forward-looking dialogue that seeks to heal and build peace rather than perpetuate divisions born from historical grievances. As the conversation around colonialism and its legacies continues to evolve, Frum’s analysis urges us to grapple thoughtfully with our histories, appreciating their complexity while seeking equitable paths forward.