Continuing along the path of reconciliation

Eight years ago, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada shared its final report documenting the experiences of more than 6,000 residential school survivors and witnesses. Children as young as four years old were taken from their families and placed for much of their childhoods into these institutions designed for assimilation into mainstream Canadian society. Every year since then, new findings have emerged that further reveal the depths of this ongoing legacy.

The TRC reminded us that all Canadians have a critical role to play in advancing reconciliation in ways that honour and revitalize the nation-to-nation Treaty relationship. In recognition of National Truth and Reconciliation Day and with the understanding that reconciliation begins with truth, on Sept 22, 2023, the Quebec Department of CRRF hosted an Inter-Community Dialogue between Indigenous and Rwandan Communities. The event provided an opportunity to learn about truth and reconciliation and healing across communities.

CRRF continues to work alongside the Woodland Cultural Centre to provide a virtual workshop on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, facilitated by Indigenous experts on October 12, 2023. This workshop will cover topics including Canada’s Indigenous Policy, the Indian Residential Settlement agreement, and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), as well as the history and policies that led to the creation of the residential schools, their legacies, and why truth and reconciliation continues to be a central issue of key importance.

CRRF is honoured to support Stardale Women’s Group’s Reconnection, Reconciliation and Resilience event, an opportunity to discuss the effects of residential schools and their legacy in Calgary. CRRF is also working with Indigenous community partners and leaders to create educational resources focused on anti-Indigenous racism and hate. This initiative is targeted for release in the coming months.

CRRF is committed to ongoing learning and growth and grateful to receive guidance from Indigenous partners on this journey towards reconciliACTION.

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The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour crisis support to former Indian Residential School students and their families toll-free at 1-866-925-4419.

Individuals impacted by the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls are encouraged to contact the MMIWG Crisis Line toll-free at 1-844-413-6649.

First Nations, Inuit and Métis seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line toll-free at 1-855-242-3310, or by online chat at hopeforwellness.ca.