September 30th marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
This day honours the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities. We must confront the truth and discomfort resulting from Canada’s actions to participate in reconciliation.
At the Ottawa Food Bank, we are committed to learning from Indigenous knowledge holders and community organizations on topics such as Indigenous food sovereignty to continue challenging colonial ideas and practices. We encourage you to read the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Committee of Canada and recognize your role in the work that needs to be done.
Resources:
- Indian Residential School Survivors and Family 24-Hour Crisis Line: 1-800-721-0066
- National Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
- First Nation and Inuit Hope and Wellness 24/7 Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
- Reconciliation through Indigenous Education
- Cultivating Change: Indigenous Food Sovereignty: Creating Ethical Spaces of Engagement
- The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation has a series of programs available throughout the week, including a live televised broadcast for Orange Shirt Day on September 30th. The Centre offers a host of educational resources.
- Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health has a series of videos providing cultural teaching from Elders, traditional dance instruction, incorporation of Seven Grandfather teachings in yoga, cultural safety, and many others.
- The Assembly of First Nations has developed a number of position papers and toolkits on a range of topics, including education.
- Métis Nation of Canada advocates for the recognition and respect of the rights of Métis peoples. Their website provides information on Métis history and culture among many other important topics.
- Inuit Tapiriit Katanami is the national voice of 65,000 Inuit in Canada. It’s website has a great section on Canadian Inuit.
- 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act: Helping Canadians Make Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples a Reality. An excellent book by Bob Joseph.