September 30 is now recognized as a federal statutory day of commemoration. The day provides an opportunity to reflect on the tragic history of residential schools and honour their Survivors by engaging in reconciliation activities within our communities.
Are you looking for ways to get involved? Here are a few ideas:
- Donate. This year we are pleased to be supporting Bent Arrow. Bent Arrow is a Traditional Healing Society which is committed to building upon the strengths of Aboriginal children, youth and families to enable them to grow spiritually, emotionally, physically and mentally so that they can walk proudly in both the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Communities. You can donate directly to Bent Arrow here. You can also make direct donations to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society.
- Research. In order to redress the legacy of residential schools and advance the process of Canadian reconciliation, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission created 94 Calls to Action. Read the TRC 94 Calls to Action here.
- Learn. Take the University of Alberta Faculty of Native Studies free Indigenous Canada online course.
- Support. Attend one or more of the free virtual events being held by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation from September 27th to October 1st.