#KimberlyMurrayInterlocutor

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Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Journey Unveiled

  Marking the Day

In a heartfelt statement issued today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau marked the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a solemn occasion also known as Orange Shirt Day. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of Canada's residential school system on First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Trudeau called for unity in remembrance, a commitment to listening, and a shared endeavor to build a more inclusive Canada.   Remembering the Stolen Lives On this day, Canadians come together to remember the children who were taken from their families and communities, as well as those whose lives were forever altered within the walls of these so-called residential schools. The Prime Minister paid tribute to the Survivors, many of whom endured physical, emotional, and sexual abuse during their time in these institutions. Trudeau emphasized the importance of listening to their stories and reaffirmed the government's dedication to a brighter future for Indigenous Peoples and all Canadians.   A Dark Chapter in History Between 1867 and 1998, more than 150,000 First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children were forcibly separated from their families and cultures to attend residential schools. These schools implemented policies that banned children from speaking their languages and practicing their cultural traditions. Today, as communities continue their search for children who never returned home, the Government of Canada is committed to providing the necessary resources to uncover the truth about what transpired in these institutions.   Uncovering the Whole Truth The Prime Minister acknowledged the rising trend of denialism and stressed the importance of revealing the complete truth about the injustices committed against Indigenous Peoples in residential schools. To facilitate this process, Kimberly Murray was appointed as the Independent Special Interlocutor for Missing Children and Unmarked Graves and Burial Sites associated with Indian Residential Schools. This appointment aims to respect the needs and concerns of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities while jointly uncovering and upholding the truth of what transpired at residential schools.   A Collective Responsibility Trudeau urged Canadians to wear orange, symbolizing the significance that every child matters. He encouraged participation in Indigenous-led events to recognize and reflect on the ongoing legacy of the residential school system. The Prime Minister emphasized that reconciliation is a shared responsibility, one that extends to all Canadians. He called on society to listen, learn, and provide space for the voices and stories of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Only by facing the truth of the past can Canada build a fairer, more equitable, and more inclusive nation for future generations.  

A Beacon of Support

If you need someone to talk to, The Hope for Wellness Help Line offers support to all Indigenous Peoples. Qualified counselors are available by phone or online chat, offering assistance in both English and French, and upon request, in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut. You can reach the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat at www.hopeforwellness.ca.  

A Lifeline for Survivors and Families

The National Residential School Crisis Line is also available to offer emotional support and crisis referral services for residential school Survivors and their families. This service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and you can reach it at 1-866-925-4419. This statement is also available in the following languages: - Algonquin - Denesuline - Innu-Aimun - Inuktitut (North Baffin) - Mi’kmaq - Michif - Oji-Cree - Plains Cree - Western Ojibway   Sources: THX News & The Canadian Government. Read the full article

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