September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to remember missing Indigenous children and survivors across Canada who were taken from their families and forced to attend residential schools.
These missing children are Le Estcwicwéy̓, which translates to “the missing” in the language of the Tk‘emlúpsemc people in British Columbia.
In a letter to Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, PSAC urges the federal government to expand the search to all former residential school sites using ground-penetrating radar, and to implement Calls to Action 71-76 in Volume 4 of the TRC Final Report: Missing Children and Unmarked Burials.
Together, we must uncover the truth of Le Estcwicwéy̓, honour their memory, and take concrete steps towards reconciliation.
Show your support
- Sign the petition urging the federal government to accelerate their efforts and search all former residential school sites and surrounding areas using ground penetrating radar to find other unmarked graves.
- Write a letter to your local newspaper or share your thoughts on social media to support Indigenous communities in their pursuit of truth and justice. Use the hashtags #EveryChildMatters, #NDTR, and #ReconciliationWeek.
Learn more
- Watch special programming on the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) throughout the day on September 30, including informative and insightful series and documentaries, and a live special called “Remembering the Children.”
- Look for local events and programming in your community to pay homage to the painful legacy and impact of residential schools and reaffirm your commitment to moving forward in unity towards reconciliation and healing.
- PSAC has also compiled additional resources to use on September 30 and after to learn, reflect, and consider how you can take meaningful action on reconciliation.
The star quilt graphic was designed by Georgina Metzler, an Anishinaabe artist and graphic designer who lives in Calgary, Alberta. Learn more about the artist and the meaning behind the work.
This article was first posted on the PSAC website.
