September 30th marks the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. On this day we honour the children taken from their families, homes, and culture – those who never got to return home, along with the Survivors, their families, and communities. We know recognition isn’t enough. We commit to listening and uplifting the voices of the Indigenous Peoples, educating ourselves and others, fighting for decolonization and working in the spirit of truth and reconciliation.
The detrimental impacts of the Residential School system have been felt through generations and are still causing harm today. While this may be the first day of National recognition, Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island have been tirelessly bringing these issues to light. Please take time today to learn more about the residential school system and how you can work towards truth and reconciliation.
Are you a settler looking to learn more and do more? Use the links below to begin your journey
– Read the statement by First Light calling on Premier Furey to enact an immediate response to the TRC’s Calls to Action and Calls for Justice that fall under provincial jurisdiction
– Read about the origins of Orange Shirt Day and the story of Phyllis Webstad
– Sign up for First Light’s Cultural Diversity Training
– Read the TRC: Calls to Action
– Read the MMWG Calls for Justice
– Check out the TRC’s educational resources
– Check out the Legacy for Hope resources
– Support local Indigenous businesses and creators
– Center the voices of Indigenous Peoples, particularly Two Spirit people and Elders
– Acknowledge the impacts of intergenerational trauma and colonization on our First Peoples that are still happening today
– Reflect on how you might be benefiting from colonial systems, sit with any discomfort, and decide what actions you’ll take in collective truth and reconciliation
– If you’re able, donate to First Light
Are you an Indigenous Person looking for support?
Friendship Centres in Newfoundland and Labrador
– First Light Friendship Centre (St. John’s)
– The Labrador Friendship Center (Labrador)
–LFC Sexual Health Information Exchange Labrador District (S.H.I.E.L.D) project
–People of the Dawn Indigenous Friendship Centre (Stephenville & St. George)
For Residential School Survivors and the Families
-The Hope for Wellness Help Line: Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat
– Residential School Survivor 24-Hour National Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
– Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program
