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National Truth & Reconciliation Day in Canada

sarahjane2022

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Today is Canada’s National Truth & Reconciliation Day. On this day as a Nation we are called to honour the resilience and experiences of Indigenous Peoples, particularly survivors of the Indian Residential Schools. This day commemorates the painful legacy of colonialism, forced assimilation, and cultural erasure inflicted upon First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.

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On this day, Canadians reflect on interngenerational trauma and suffering caused by the Indian Residential School system, where thousands of Indigenous children were forcibly taken from their families, subjected to abuse, and denied their cultural identities.

On this day Canadians are encouraged to engage in meaningful conversations that perhaps can lead to reconciliation.

By confronting our shared history and its ongoing impacts, we can work towards healing and justice. Perhaps working towards equality and equity future for all Indigenous Peoples.

Below I have included a few links I found in my research. I would encourage readers to spend some time and learn about this history:

Residential Schools in Canada

Reconciliation in Canada

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Kuper Islant Residential School (Vancouver Island)

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The school would come to be nicknamed “alcatraz” for its remote location and appalling conditions. At least 121 are known to have died there, including two sisters who drowned while attempting to escape.

PHOTO BY NATIONAL CENTRE FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION

This might be the school my Great Grandfather was taken to. My Great Grandmother either was taken to this school or she was raised in a convent. I’m not exactly sure of their story and their history. Whatever they experienced they never spoke of. But I can testify to how intergenerational trauma has impacted my Grandmother’s generation and my father’s generation. I can also testify to how, with each new generation, we strive for better. It hasn’t been an easy journey but it is well worth the hard work it takes as we see the fruit of our labour as the next generation stands strong their identity and find their way in this world.

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Journey Through Life Changing Trauma

On February 4, 2024 I was involved in a work related accident that was near fatal and life changing. This has presented in challenges that have made it especially difficult during my recovery. I experience Post Traumatic Stress Symptoms, Anxiety, and Depression. All of this has worsened and brought to light a heart condition I have which is LongQT Syndrome. LongQT Syndrome with Anxiety is considered a disability. I will experience significant challenges when it comes to returning to work. Work Safe has not only affirmed my case stating that I was not willfully negligent and that my injuries that are currently compensable or not in question so my employer who appealed Work Safe’s initial ruling was no successful. After a failed attempt at a return to work program my file was transferred to Vocational Rehabilitation and long term benefits. I have been assessed for a Pension but at this point I am not sure how much I will be awarded in that Pension. This assessment will take time.

Injuries from my accident

  • Fractured Larynx
  • 2 Right Rib Fractures (9th & 11th)
  • Pneumothorax (punctured lungs associated with fractured ribs)
  • Lacerated Spleen
  • Hemothorax (collection of blood within the body in association with the lacerated spleen)
  • Transverse Process fractures L1, L2, L4 (These fractures are tiny bones within the spinal column)
  • Comminuted Fracture upper Left Humerus bone (upper arm involving the shoulder joint requiring surgery)
  • Post Traumatic Stress

Journey through Writing

The best way people can support me is by being present. Sometimes I fight thoughts of being alone and all I need is human connection. You can’t put a price on human connection. Instead of being inundated with negative thoughts I would much rather focus on the positive. I would much rather speak to myself words of compassion, mercy, and be present to myself. In the process, through it I will write in my blog and share with you my journey. We could all use a little human connection and find encouragement.

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