We recognize this statement may contain information that is difficult for many and that our efforts to honour Survivors and families may act as an unwelcome reminder for those who have suffered hardships through generations of harmful government policies toward Indigenous Peoples.
If you need someone to talk to, a National Residential School Crisis Line offers emotional support and crisis referral services for residential school Survivors and their families. Call the toll-free Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Hope for Wellness Help Line also offers support to all Indigenous Peoples. Counsellors are available by phone or online chat. This service is available in English and French, and, upon request, in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut. Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat at www.hopeforwellness.ca.
Commemorating the tragic history and impact of residential schools is essential to the healing and reconciliation process. Canada is committed to continuing its efforts to pursue truth and reconciliation, to right historical wrongs, and to support communities in their efforts to foster healing for the Survivors of residential schools, their families and their communities.
Today, Yasir Naqvi, Member of Parliament (Ottawa Centre), on behalf of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Pablo Rodriguez, announced investments totalling more than $4 million to support 278 community projects all across the country and two major national projects: a national commemorative gathering on September 30 for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and an educational program week for students in the country. Announced in Budget 2021, this funding was awarded to support commemoration activities for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Following a call for proposals, these approved projects will help raise awareness of the history and impact of residential schools and promote healing and reconciliation.
During Truth and Reconciliation Week, from September 26 to 29, a national educational program will be offered by the NCTR to all students in grades 1 to 12 (secondary 5) in Canada. The aim of the program is to offer young people the opportunity to learn the truth about our history and to commemorate this history. It is an important step on the path of reconciliation.
On September 30 at 1 p.m. ET, APTN, in partnership with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR), will produce and broadcast a program live from LeBreton Flats Park in Ottawa as part of a national gathering to which everyone is invited. Remembering the Children: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation will be presented in honour of Survivors, their families and communities. It will air a second time later that evening during primetime on APTN channels.
Several other projects will also mark the second year of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, such as commemorative gatherings, community marches and ceremonies, exhibitions, educational activities and many other activities taking place across the country.
