Today, Canada marks 10 years since the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released its Final Report on the residential school system.
Prime Minister Carney reflected on the devastating impact of over a century of residential schools, during which more than 150,000 First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children were forcibly removed from their families, separated from their communities, and stripped of their languages and identities.
Carney emphasized that remembrance must be paired with responsibility. The government continues to advance the TRC’s Calls to Action and the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act is also underway, in partnership with Indigenous Peoples.
The Prime Minister highlighted significant initiatives to improve living conditions and opportunities for Indigenous communities, including doubling the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program and investing $2.8 billion in off-reserve, urban, rural, and Northern housing, alongside $1.7 billion for on-reserve housing. He noted that 85 per cent of drinking water advisories on reserve have been lifted, with legislation planned in the spring to accelerate the removal of remaining advisories.
Carney stressed that reconciliation is a daily task requiring practical action and partnership with Indigenous communities. “We pledge to build a future where Survivors are honoured with remembrance, justice, and a stronger, fairer Canada,” he said.
Indigenous people and Survivors in crisis are reminded that 24/7 confidential support is available through the National Residential School Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419, and the Hope for Wellness Help Line at 1-855-242-3310, including online chat services. Support is also available in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut upon request.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
