September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a time for learning, reflection, and honouring Survivors, their families and the children who never returned home.

The term “reconciliation” came into broader use after World War II to describe post-conflict healing processes following human rights violations. In the Canadian context, ‘Reconciliation’ refers to addressing the ongoing impacts of colonialism and working to improve relationships between Indigenous Peoples and the Canadian state.

Advancing this work has long been a priority at Western. In 2016, the university released its Indigenous Strategic Plan, which outlines institutional commitments to strengthening relationships with Indigenous Peoples, expanding Indigenous learning and research, and supporting Indigenous students, staff, and faculty. This foundation continues to guide Western today.

Building on that commitment, one of Western University's key strategic priorities in the "Towards 150" strategic plan is "advancing Reconciliation with Indigenous communities" under theme two - People, Community and Culture.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission was formed in 2008 after the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement. Survivors requested that part of their settlement be used to create a commission to document what happened in Indian residential schools (IRSs) so no Canadian could claim ignorance of the system.

Between 2008 and 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) travelled across the country listening to and recording thousands of Survivor and family testimonies. In their Final Report, released in 2015, it included 94 Calls to Action. Each Call to Action is a specific recommendation to redress the legacy of the residential school system and advance Reconciliation.

In 2028, two years after the TRC Calls to Action were released, Truth and Reconciliation Commissioner, Senator Murray Sinclair-baa, says Canadian can work towards reconciliation:

Indigenous Watchdog tracks progress on each of the TRC Calls to Action and reports on areas of advancement and stalling. See Indigenous Watchdog for regular updates.

Current Status

Conversations around Indian Residential Schools and their legacy will impact Indigenous people with lived experiences in your classroom, office and on campus.

While educators have a responsibility to foster learning through discussion and critical thinking, conversations about the severity or intent of the Residential School system, such as whether it constitutes genocide, must be approached with care. These discussions extend beyond the classroom and should aim to foster belonging, promote Reconciliation, and avoid retraumatization.

The impacts of Residential Schools are ongoing and deeply felt in Indigenous communities today, affecting education, child welfare, incarceration rates, health, culture, and spirituality. Educators and facilitators must approach this topic with sensitivity and a trauma-informed mindset

Please consult the Engaging with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Toolkit for further information and specific tips for teaching and discussing this topic with care.