Taking care: We recognize this news release 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 government policies that were harmful to Indigenous Peoples.
The 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.
February 17, 2023 - Ottawa, Ontario - Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
The locating of unmarked graves and burial sites at former residential schools across Canada is a tragic reminder of the abuse that many Indigenous children suffered in these institutions. In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action 72 to 76, the Government of Canada is committed to supporting Indigenous communities as they continue the difficult and critical work of uncovering the truth and commemorating the children who never returned home, in the way these communities see fit.
Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Crown−Indigenous Relations; and Kathryne Bomberger, Director-General of the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP), are announcing the signing of a Technical Arrangement between the Government of Canada and the ICMP.
Under the Technical Arrangement, Crown−Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada is providing approximately $2 million to the ICMP, who will conduct a cross-country outreach and engagement campaign with Indigenous communities that wish to explore options for the identification and repatriation of human remains from unmarked burial sites associated with former residential schools.
To ensure discussions and information sessions are inclusive, respectful of Indigenous protocols, culturally sensitive, and offer adequate health support, local Indigenous facilitators will lead every step of the process. The ICMP will provide expert information on DNA analysis and other forensic approaches for consideration, but communities are not required to employ the ICMP's services. Interested Indigenous communities will share their experiences, thoughts and views to shape the work ahead.
The ICMP's work will conclude with a final report to Canada that examines future strategies for repatriation and respects the local knowledge and information provided by Indigenous communities.
This work will be independent from the Government of Canada and complimentary to the efforts already underway by Indigenous leaders, communities, Survivors, families, experts and other independent organizations, and the Special Interlocuter.
