As the seasons change and we enter a time of reflection, we pause today to honour the Survivors, the children who never made it home, and the families and communities forever changed by Indian Residential and Day Schools. This day is an annual reminder to carry forward the truths of those living and past, and walk together toward a future rooted in healing, respect, and reconciliation.
Reconciliation is not only about remembrance, it is about action and change. This means actively supporting Indigenous communities and people in their healing journey. From coast to coast to coast, the Indigenous mental wellness workforce – including Indian Residential School (IRS) Resolution Health Support Workers, Mental Wellness Teams, Elders, and community helpers – walks beside Survivors, families, and youth. Their work is vital to Indigenous wellness, intergenerational healing, and restoring Hope, Purpose, Meaning, and Belonging for the generations to come.
At First Peoples Wellness Circle (FPWC), we are committed to supporting this essential workforce with training, resources, and culturally grounded approaches. We also continue to advocate for secure and sustained funding for these workforces, who are essential in helping to support those harmed by these schools.
On this National Day for Truth & Reconciliation, we continue to honour Survivors, families, and the Indigenous mental wellness workforce who continue to carry forward their stories, truths, and strengths. Thank you to all who carry these stories, lived, shared, and remembered.
Resources:
To learn more about this day, we encourage you to visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR): https://trw-svr.nctr.ca/
To read the FPWC Qualitative Assessment on the impact and benefits of the Resolution Health Support Program (RHSP), visit: https://fpwc.ca/projects/indian-residential-school-resolution-health-support-program-irs-rhsp-formative-analysis/
Supports:
Indigenous peoples across Canada can access The Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for counselling and crisis intervention. Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat at https://www.hopeforwellness.ca/
