Insight Psychology acknowledges The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Like many members of our community, we were deeply disturbed this past May when the unmarked graves of children who were housed in the residential school in Kamloops were revealed. The knowledge that many other Indigenous children across Canada suffered a similar fate or were subjected to neglect and many forms of abuse weighs heavily in our hearts. The fact that children were maltreated in this dehumanizing way to erase their connection to family and culture is unconscionable. The legacy of trauma that was left behind, as well as other harms that have been caused by unjust policies, continues impact First Nations, Inuit and Metis communities.

What can we do? That is a difficult question, one that we would like to begin answering with respectful listening and reflection. Our practice would like to acknowledge that September 30 has been named “The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.” We have identified a few places that will be providing programming and resources for Canadians to listen to and watch – and many offer suggestions for a more ongoing commitment to make a difference.

• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. This organization was established for residential school survivors and their families, scholars, and the public to hold safe the history of the residential school system. It was one of the action items listed TRC report. It is providing programming all week which you can access through the website http://www.nctr.ca.
• www.reconciliationcanada.ca also has a wonderful list of useful resources and links that offer opportunities for learning
• The First Nations Caring Society works year-round to support and advocate on behalf of Indigenous children and their families through education and direct action. This organization is working hard to bring to light and change unfair policies and practices. You can take a look at their website www.fncaringsociety.com.
• Our national broadcasting corporation, the CBC, is offering special programming on September 30. Visit cbc.ca for details.
• Some books we have read and found both engaging and informative include:
  • Alicia Elliott “A Mind Spread Out on the Ground”
  • Jesse Thistle “From the Ashes”
  • Michelle Goodman “Five Little Indians”
  • Tanya Talaga “All our Relations: Finding the Path Forward” (CBC Massey Lecture)
  • Joshua Whitehead “Johnny Appleseed” (2021 Canada Reads winner)

We hope that many of you will join us in acknowledging The National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, as a starting point for change and healing.