Honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

On September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we pause as an organization to remember the children who were taken from their families, communities and cultures through Canada’s residential school system. We honour survivors and acknowledge the lasting impacts of residential schools on Indigenous people across British Columbia and Canada.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is not only about remembrance; it is about responsibility.

We encourage everyone in the legal profession and beyond to listen, learn and reflect on the truths of survivors and the ongoing impacts of residential schools. By building meaningful relationships rooted in accountability, respect and trust, we can all contribute to meaningful change and advance reconciliation in ways that extend beyond September 30.

Explore resources and opportunities to get involved:

• Attend events in your community or online. The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation is offering virtual programs from September 21­ to 25. Each day features a lunch and learn session where speakers explore topics such as protecting survivor’s truths, economic reconciliation, solidarity, residential school denialism, honouring Indigenous leadership and health and well-being.

• Deepen your understanding of Indigenous rights, laws and lived experiences through education and resources. The Canadian Bar Association of BC has curated a range of resources, including guides on UNDRIP, reconciliation planning, Indigenous cultural awareness, Gladue and the over representation of Indigenous Peoples in the justice system.
  
  
• Purchase and wear an orange shirt on September 30. Ensure you purchase from an official retailer so that $10 from every shirt sold goes to the Orange Shirt Society. 
  
  
• The National Film Board of Canada provides a selection of films by Indigenous filmmakers and allies about the tragic impact of residential school survivors in Canada. 
  
  
• Support Canadian organizations that provide essential services to residential school survivors and Indigenous communities, such as the Indian Residential School Survivors Society and the Indigenous Friends Association. Local groups like the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre in Vancouver also run Indigenous support programs and welcome donations of items like clothing, toiletries and blankets.
  
  

• Residential school survivors and their families can call 866.925.4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports from the Government of Canada. Indigenous peoples across Canada can also go to 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 hopeforwellness.ca.