Monday, September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It holds immense importance in Canada, as it signifies a crucial step towards rebuilding relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
While this day provides an opportunity for reflection, education and dialogue on the shared history of Canada, Indigenous peoples have been bringing the truth forward for generations and calling upon the health-care system to do better. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation calls upon Canadians to hear those truths and learn about the experiences of residential school survivors, understand the impact of colonization, and actively participate in the reconciliation process.
Watch this video here featuring President & CEO Kathy MacNeil, where she talks about the need to “…pause, gather, listen, learn, unlearn and open our hearts to acknowledge the uncomfortable truths necessary to move towards a new understanding of the relationships that we need to build."
On September 30, staff and medical staff are encouraged to consider and learn how you can each promote truth and reconciliation in your life.
TAKE ACTION:
- Join the conversation (video)
- Find opportunities and resources to learn and unlearn (PDF)
- Wear your orange shirts and share a photo with TheWeekly@islandhealth.ca
- Attend or volunteer at a local event in your community
- Register for Core Health: San'yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Online Training
- Register for Bystander to Ally: San'yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Online Training (yula.stevens@islandhealth.ca)
- Make a Personal Pledge of Reconciliation: National Day of Truth & Reconciliation, September 30 (ictinc.ca)
- Update your Teams background to one of the many Island Health 'Every Child Matter's orange backgrounds
FIND SUPPORTS:
If you need supports over the coming days and ongoing, Indigenous-specific support is available. CLICK HERE for a listing.
FIND EVENTS:
CLICK HERE to find event listings or add your own in the comments.