Listening Is a Form of Care

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day to honour Survivors, remember the children who never returned home, and recognize the ongoing individual, family and community impacts of residential schools.

For non-Indigenous people and organizations, the day is not an opportunity to centre our own feelings or rush toward comforting conclusions. It is an invitation to listen, learn and accept responsibility for continuing the work beyond September 30.

Listening without taking over

Careful listening does not demand that someone educate us on request. It makes space for Indigenous voices and follows the leadership of Survivors, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, families and communities. It includes learning from credible Indigenous-led sources, supporting Indigenous organizations and noticing when our systems create barriers or harm.

Listening also means resisting the urge to make pain easier for the listener. The history and ongoing effects of colonial policies are difficult because they are real—not because they have been explained incorrectly.

Make reflection concrete

Choose an action that continues after today. Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Learn whose lands and Treaty territory you live and work on, and what those agreements require. Review how your organization serves Indigenous clients. Support Indigenous-led community and wellness initiatives. Return to the work regularly.

Content about residential schools can bring up trauma and grief. The National Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour support at 1-866-925-4419. First Nations, Inuit and Métis people can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or visit hopeforwellness.ca.

Today, and throughout the year, may our listening lead to accountable action.