National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

BCPA acknowledges September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour and remember the children who never returned home, the survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities. We recognize the lasting impacts of this tragic history, which continue to affect Indigenous peoples across generations, and support healing and resilience.

This day also coincides with Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led movement to raise awareness about the intergenerational impacts of residential schools and to honour the children who were lost.

As psychologists, we have a responsibility to listen, learn, and act in ways that support the well-being of Indigenous peoples. This includes acknowledging systemic harms, working toward culturally safe and trauma-informed care, and amplifying Indigenous voices in mental health and community wellness.

Mental health supports available

Former residential school students can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports from the Government of Canada.

Indigenous peoples across Canada can also go to The Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for counselling and crisis intervention.

Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat (Please use Google Chrome).

Learning resources
 

▶️ NCTR - National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation 

▶️Canada.ca - National Day for Truth and Reconciliation - Canada.ca

▶️ Orange Shirt Society Orange Shirt Day