Each year on September 30, we pause to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a day to honour Survivors of residential schools, remember children who never returned home, acknowledge families and communities who continue to carry the impacts of these institutions, and reflect on our collective responsibility to advance reconciliation.
This day exists because Survivors refused to let their stories be forgotten. Their courage made it impossible for the rest of Canada to look away. Their truth-telling challenged long-held assumptions about our history and created an opportunity, and an obligation, for all of us to learn, understand, and act.
Over the past two decades in education, I have witnessed meaningful change. Conversations that were once absent from classrooms are now part of how we teach and learn. We see students engaging with Indigenous histories, perspectives, and ways of knowing. We see staff members dedicating themselves to learning, unlearning, and building more inclusive spaces. We see growing recognition that reconciliation is not an Indigenous issue to be addressed by Indigenous people alone. It is a Canadian responsibility.
And yet, I have also learned that reconciliation is not work that can ever be considered complete. Each generation inherits the responsibility to continue it. The work ahead of us is not only found in classrooms, professional learning sessions, or organizational plans. It is found in our relationships. It is found in the conversations we have around board tables, staff rooms, community gatherings, and kitchen tables. It is found in our willingness to continue listening to one another.
There has been significant progress and there remains much work ahead. Both of these things can be true.
In schools, this work takes shape through curriculum, student learning, relationships, and the creation of environments where Indigenous students see themselves reflected, valued, and affirmed. It happens when we listen deeply to community voices and when we create opportunities for all students to understand the truths of this country. But reconciliation cannot begin and end at school.
It also happens in our homes. It happens in conversations with family members, friends and neighbours. It happens when we challenge stereotypes, speak honestly about history, and consider what our own responsibilities might be. It happens when we choose not to turn away from difficult truths.
As we mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I encourage each of us to take time to learn, reflect, remember, and engage in conversation. Let’s ensure we honour the truth of the past, recognize the responsibilities of the present, and commit ourselves to the work that still lies ahead.
Reconciliation is not someone else's work. It belongs to all of us.
Sincerely,
Jackie Connell