September 30, 2021 marks the first National Day of Truth and Reconciliation as well as Orange Shirt Day. Together these two events – one a government-mandated holiday, another a grassroots effort – provide space and opportunity for all kinds of people across Turtle Island to bring light to the reality of residential schools and their impacts on students, their families, and on society at large.
What are some Indigenous perspectives on the holiday? What are the roles and responsibilities for Indigenous peoples and settlers alike in the work of reconciliation? Should Indigenous staff get choice parking spots as simple acts of restitution? All this and more is covered in this conversation, moderated by IEJ Principal Investigator Deborah McGregor and featuring Angele Alook, Brock Pitawanakwat and Ruth Green.
There is some mention of overdose, suicide and violence in this discussion, and the conversations around students’ experiences may be disturbing to some. Listener discretion is advised. If you need to talk to anyone about the contents of this podcast episode, we encourage you to reach out to any of the following resources:
National:
Indian Residential School Survivors & Family 24 Hour Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419 https://www.irsss.ca/faqs/how-do-i-reach-the-24-hour-crisis-line
IRSSS Services: Counselling, therapy, healing, coaching, workshops, traditional healing methods/medicines, etc. https://www.irsss.ca/services
Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310 (available 24 hours, in English, French, Cree, Ojibway, Inuktitut)
Health Canada Help Line: 1-866-925-4419
Health Canada’s Northern Region: 1-800-464-8106
NWAC Elder Support Line Canada Wide: (M-F 9am-11am, 1pm-3pm): 888-664-7808
Ontario:
CAMH Aboriginal Service: 416-535-8501 EXT.02
Local Friendship Centers: https://ofifc.org/program/indigenous-mental-health-and-wellness-program/