National Day of Truth and Reconciliation
For a society to move forward and evolve, it is important to understand its history and the defining moments that shaped it. One of those defining moments for Canada is the tragic history of the Indigenous People and the residential schools.
While we cannot turn back time, we also cannot ignore the impact and repercussions that these events have had on these communities. We must truly reflect, acknowledge our faults and implications and work hand in hand with these communities to move forward towards reconciliation.
On this National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, historically known as Orange Shirt Day, CAPE invites you to take the time to remember and honour all the children who were torn from their families and communities and placed in residential schools; those who suffered, survived and are permanently affected by it, and those who sadly did not survive. We also invite you to be allies for Indigenous Peoples and to stand in solidarity with them as they continue to fight for their rights in the workplace and in society.
Resources
Below some resources in case you are triggered by this article and topic:
We recognize that this time is difficult for many and that our efforts to honour residential school Survivors, their families, and Indigenous communities may cause trauma to those who have suffered through generations of government policies that were harmful to Indigenous peoples. A support line is available to residential school Survivors, their families, and Indigenous communities for support, emotional and crisis referral services. It also provides information on how to obtain other health supports from the Government of Canada.
Please call 1-866-925-4419 if you or someone you know is triggered while reading this.
We encourage all those who need support at this time to reach out and know that support is always there for through the Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for counselling and crisis intervention. Call toll-free at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat at hopeforwellness.ca.
