September 30, 2021 marks the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The day honours the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process.
On this first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the College is reflecting on our role in the healthcare system and the historic and systemic discrimination and racism that Indigenous Peoples in this country have, and continue to, endure.
The College remains committed to reconciliation and building trust with Indigenous Peoples. We will continue to listen, learn, and work together with Indigenous partners, and will not let our privilege, power, and position prevent us from seeing the work we need to do. Through reflection and education, we are taking action to address the health disparities, racism, and discrimination faced by Indigenous Peoples in the healthcare system.
Orange Shirt Day
September 30th is also Orange Shirt Day. Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day that honours the children who survived Indian Residential Schools and remembers those who did not.
On September 30, we encourage all Canadians to wear orange to raise awareness of the very tragic legacy of residential schools, and to honour the thousands of Survivors.
Resources
Visit the Government of Canada website to learn more about Truth and Reconciliation initiatives and access supports for former Residential School students and Indigenous Peoples.
The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation is a resource for learning and dialogue, where the truths of the residential school experience are honoured and kept safe for future generations. It was created as part of the mandate of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. The TRC was charged to listen to Survivors, their families, communities, and others affected by the residential school system and educate Canadians about their experiences.
To redress the legacy of residential schools and advance the process of reconciliation, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released 94 Calls to Action. See the Calls to Action on the National Centre’s website.
Former Residential School students can call the Indian Residential School Survivors Society’s crisis line at 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports.
The Hope for Wellness 24/7 Help Line provides counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous Peoples across Canada. Call 1-855-242-3310 or chat online hopeforwellness.ca