In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action, the federal government passed legislation in June recognizing September 30, 2021, as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. We encourage all CNC community members to reflect on this important milestone and consider how they can acknowledge and honour National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with their CNC programs, communities and families.
If you’re looking for resources to help you plan ahead and broaden your understanding of Truth and Reconciliation, the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society has a variety of information, resources and activities to support educators across Canada in fostering reconciliation. Their focus is on programming for older children, but it might inspire ideas for your program. CBC kids also has a whole page dedicated to great Indigenous videos, programming and resources. They also have helpful information about Orange Shirt Day (also on September 30th).
We also urge all of our programs to review the teachings of Elder Brenda Mason and Lori Huston, RECE, who joined us in February to discuss the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action. This 3-part webinar series and associated articles can help support a deepening of our understanding of what it means to honour the knowledge and skills of Indigenous children and families as we reckon with the past and find our way forward.
