Truth and Reconciliation

“The reality is that there is no simple way to explain centuries of historical injustice, just as there is no way to provide a simple cause‐and‐effect progression of how each violation helped pave the way to another” Karine Duhamel’s article Why Reconciliation? Why Now?

“It is our responsibility to share these truths in a respectful way and work with Indigenous and non-Indigenous educators, researchers, communities, decision-makers and the general public to support the ongoing work of truth, reconciliation and healing across Canada and beyond.”

-National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation

To engage in equity-based co-creation requires that we acknowledge, share, and actively pursue reconciliation for historical harms that continue to marginalize members of the community. This work can be confronting, and it is everyone’s responsibility to avoid defensiveness and othering. To embrace and share the Truth of what happened means turning towards the pain, not avoiding the realities of what has and continues to happen.

For an example of the truth of the Canada’s history of cultural genocide through the Indian Residential School system, please watch the video below. We have included additional resources below for you to expand your knowledge of this history and the legacy that persists.