If you’re truly interested in educating yourself please try some of the links I’ve posted here for you. It is not the job of Indigenous Canadians to educate you personally. Many of them are sharing resources and pouring their time and effort into providing resources, but it is inappropriate for us to ask them any more than what they volunteer to offer. Too many people have been surprised and shocked about the “discovery” of these bodies, even though their community, friends, and families have been telling us for generations what happened and where they were. It’s time to listen, it’s time to learn and the first step starts with you, not them. If you truly care about this country, then it’s of paramount importance that you care about her first inhabitants, her living history, her people.
Some links to help you get started:
Reconciliation Canada: This site has a variety of information and services, including this list of support services for Indigenous Peoples in crisis or struggling.
Indian Residential School Survivors Society: A wealth of information can be found here, including links, education, events, and services for Indigenous Peoples in need.
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Here you’ll find invaluable information, reports, and findings to learn from and reference. This includes the call to action which I will link directly.
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action (pdf): Explore the Calls to Action here. Note that you’ll find the Calls that pertain to ‘Missing Children and Burial Information’ at number 71.
Orange Shirt Day: The official page of the annual Orange Shirt Day event. Here you can find out what the even is about and how you and your family can participate.
University of Alberta: Offers a free 12 week coarse on Indigenous Canada from their Faculty of Native Studies.
APTN: National News source with a focus on Indigenous Peoples and their stories.
For Letter Writing:
Citizens For Public Justice: has some tips and samples for writing a letter to your Member of Parliament (MP)
House of Commons Canada: has a simple to use, interactive map to help you find the mailing information for your local MP.
If you have valuable information, websites, book recommendations or guidance, please share it with your friends and family. The more information, education, and awareness is circulating the better. There is so much history we were never taught in school, but that stops here. We can help encourage the change by amplifying Indigenous voices and encouraging the people in our communities to educate themselves on our true Canadian history.
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If you are an Indigenous Person in crisis or struggling please reach out to the crisis line and talk to someone. You are not alone, and you matter.
IRSSS Crisis Line: 1 (866) 925-4419
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