Feature Story: Self-education and truth and reconciliation

Abstract

While classes are cancelled on September 30 for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the learning shouldn't stop.

Canada established the federal statutory holiday last year to honour the Indigenous children who never returned home from, and the children who survived the abuse of the federally-run residential school system, as well as their families, and communities.

Between 2008 and 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada - which was created following a legal settlement between survivors and the parties responsible for the schools - documented the painful history and lasting legacy of the residential schools system.