In the future I hope to use this space to highlight specific Truth and Reconciliation resources, but like many of you, I am still at the beginning of my journey towards understanding. What’s more, I agree with the many voices who are noting that before reconciliation there must come truth. We can’t reconcile what we don’t acknowledge or understand. So in honour of Truth and Reconciliation Day (September 30th), I thought I would share where my learning began in the hopes that it might be a similar starting place for others. Unsurprisingly, given my appreciation for online learning, it began on the internet, reading the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action.

This document doesn’t live in a dusty basement archive. It’s online and completely accessible. Section 62, education for reconciliation, speaks specifically to what we can advocate and strive for as educators. We need to read this, internalize this, and take responsibility for this. Change is not reserved for those who write policy or lead governments, change starts with the individual. So, if you haven’t already done so, I challenge you today to take your first step. Read the report and join me and many others who are slowly but surely trying to make a difference.

i. Develop and implement Kindergarten to Grade Twelve curriculum and learning resources on Aboriginal peoples in Canadian history, and the history and legacy of residential schools.
ii. Share information and best practices on teaching curriculum related to residential schools and Aboriginal history.
iii. Build student capacity for intercultural understanding, empathy, and mutual respect.
iv. Identify teacher-training needs relating to the above.

Lastly, if you’re looking for digital tools for celebrating National Truth and Reconciliation Day, there are great resources available online here. The page provides downloadable images, information on the meaning behind the visuals, an activity guide, and print materials.