The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is intended to honour the survivors, their families, communities and others affected by the residential school system and educate Canadians about their experiences. This is an important commemoration of the painful history and the impacts of residential schools which continue today.
On this first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Law Society will be observing September 30 as a day of commemoration to reflect on the tragic history and ongoing legacy of Residential Schools. This means that most Law Society operations, including the Great Library, will be closed on Thursday, September 30. We will resume normal hours of operation Friday, October 1.
So to commemorate this day, we have gathered some resources that provide education surrounding Truth and Reconciliation, as well as other organizations and supports (these are only a sampling of resources available):
T&R Education & Resources
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (archived)
Indian Residential School Survivors Society
City of Toronto National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Government of Canada National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
T& R Reports
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
Events & Courses
Schedule for Truth and Reconciliation Week (General Public – National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation)
In the Spirit of Reconciliation (Dr. Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, Indigenous Services, Georgian College)
The Inaugural National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Exploring what this means for reconciliation in Canada (Bob Watts, Harriet Visitor, Blair Cunningham, & Hillory Tenute, The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund)
A Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Amplifying Indigenous Voices (The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund)
Shining Light on the Indian Residential School Legacy (Sandra Campbell, Toronto Urban Native Ministry)
Public Event to Honour Indigenous History (University of Windsor)
Rising Heart’s Remembrance Run (virtual)
University of Alberta Indigenous Canada Course (free)
Organizations
Aboriginal Mental Health and Wellness (CAMH)
National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
Toronto Aboriginal Support Services Council
Mental Health Supports
National Day of Truth and Reconciliation may be difficult, as many continue to reflect, heal and confront traumas. If you require support, the following resources are available:
The Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat
Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645
Native Youth Crisis Line: 1-877-209-1266
National Indian Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
Kids Help Phone – Indigenous Peoples can connect with an Indigenous volunteer crisis responder, when available, by texting FIRST NATIONS, INUIT or METIS to:
686868 for youth
741741 for adults
Know How 