Truth and Reconciliation
SD48 wishes to invite you to participate in showing support to local Indigenous communities, particularly throughout the month of September, raising awareness of national Truth and Reconciliation. We wear the orange shirts in honour of survivors, of those who never returned, and of the ongoing legacy of Residential Schools. Currently, we are in a time where our ally-ship is important on a continuous basis and not only a visible event on the official Orange Shirt Day. The local First Nations will continue to guide us and we are preparing to show solidarity out in community events on September 30th, National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, as well as other days which will be landmarks in the history of this country.
Events
Resources
Orange Shirt Day: The annual Orange Shirt Day on September 30th opens the door to the global conversation on all aspects of Residential Schools. It is an opportunity to create meaningful discussion about the effects of Residential Schools and the legacy they have left behind. A discussion all Canadians can tune into and create bridges with each other for reconciliation. A day for survivors to be reaffirmed that they matter, and so do those that have been affected. Every Child Matters, even if they are an adult, from now on. Visit https://www.orangeshirtday.org/about-us.html for more information.
National Truth and Reconciliation: The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) is a place of learning and dialogue where the truths of Residential School Survivors, families and communities are honoured and kept safe for future generations. Learn more about the NCTR at https://nctr.ca/about/.
Report on Indigenous Women and Girls: Sacred and Strong is a report about the health and wellness of Indigenous women and girls living in B.C. Grounded in Indigenous wellness perspectives, it contains data, stories and teachings about the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health and well-being of Indigenous women at every phase of life. Read the report
Talking to Kids About Residential Schools: Monique Grey Smith provides educators and parents with helpful resources and starting points for important conversations. https://youtu.be/ebOJ_lMCVvk
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action
The Whole Truth About Residential Schools: Then and Now: Beginning Sept. 15, 2021, Nelson will host a new, free webinar series entitled "The Whole Truth About Residential Schools: Then and Now." The series will provide a comprehensive overview of the Residential School System and the intergenerational impacts and actions resulting from the Indian Residential School Settlement agreement. Participants will learn of practical strategies and recommended resources to help support student learning about residential schools and tips on navigating these crucial K-12 classroom discussions. With the recent findings of unmarked graves of children who attended residential schools, this series is recommended for educators and students to learn more about the truth of these schools. Register through Nelson's website today!
Urban Iskwew: Older elementary, middle school or high school. Art, Design or as self-regulation tool. Downloadable colouring pages with indigenous design and themes done in the style of adult colouring books.https://www.urbaniskwew.com/coloring-pages?fbclid=IwAR3SwR-1bihaKHMQai0U0ihE4pnI5QFKHMPmVOwDwuzsgtPTkbE91aTq6z4
How We Show Support
Mental Health Supports for Students, Families and Staff
Mental health Supports for Students, Families and Staff:
- Healing and wellness resources | Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre (ubc.ca) (This link provides self-care strategies, several embedded links for students, survivors and family members, community members and Indigenous peoples)
- First Nations Health Authority (fnha.ca) (Comprehensive supports varying from traditional healing, mental wellness, tips guides and resources)
- NEW MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS FOR MÉTIS PEOPLE IN BC – Métis Nation British Columbia (mnbc.ca)(Pilot program providing Métis youth and adults in B.C. with funding for counselling)
- PUBLICATION-Mental-Health-and-Resiliency-Supports-2020-05-01b.pdf (fnesc.ca)(Comprehensive list of Mental Health and Resiliency supports from FNESC)
24/7 supports:
- KUU-US Crisis Line 1-800-588-8717
- Indian Residential School Survivors and Family 1-866-925-4419, Mon – Fri, 8 am – 8 pm PT: Weekends, 10 am – 2 pm PT
- Tsow-Tun-Le-Lum Society 1-888-403-3123
British Columbia Resources:
- Aboriginal Wellness Program 604-675-2551 or 1-866-884-0888
- Canadian Mental Health Association - British Columbia Division 1-800-555-8222
- HeretoHelp1-800-661-2121
National Crisis Hotlines:
- Kids Help Phone1-800-668-6868
- Crisis Services Canada 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645
- First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line1‑855‑242-3310