Ways to Learn & Grow This Truth and Reconciliation Day

It’s important to honour the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples in Canada, not only on Truth and Reconciliation Day but every day; the day is an opportunity for us to reflect on the ongoing journey toward healing and understanding.

We wanted to share some ways to continue learning and growing: events to attend in the Lower Mainland, insightful books to read, and organizations that do tremendous work in our community to donate to. Whether you are looking to learn more, offer your support, or simply to reflect on the importance of recognition, we hope these ideas inspire you to participate in this important day of reflection and action.

Events to Attend:

1. Skookum Surrey
Be present and learn about Indigenous culture at the Skookum Surrey Truth and Reconciliation event. There will be drumming, teachings and story sharing, bannock and warm beverages
Date & Time: Friday September 27, 2024, from 3 PM to 5 PM
Location: Holland Park, Surrey

2. Finding Your Voice
Explore what makes each person unique and discover how to spread kindness through artmaking. 
Date & Time: Monday September 30, 2024, from 1 PM to 4:45 PM
Location: Place des Arts, Coquitlam

3. Truth and Reconciliation Day: NFB Film Screenings
The Museum of Vancouver and the National Film Board are partnering to screen films by Indigenous directors for Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30th. The films chosen focus on how Indigenous communities are coming together to heal and move forward.
Date & Times: Monday September 30, 2024, from 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Location: Museum of Vancouver

4. Intergenerational March at UBC Outdoor Amphitheatre
Join the march to commemorate Orange Shirt Day. Hosting the event are the faculties of applied science, land and good systems and forestry.
Date & Time: Monday September 30, 2024, from 11:45 AM to 3 PM
Location: UBC Outdoor Amphitheatre

5. Stalew Pow Wow
Experience the rich Indigenous history and culture at the annual Stɑl̓əw̓ Pow Wow at the Langley Events Center.
Dates & Times: September 13-15, 2024, 5:00-9:30 (Friday) | 11am-10pm (Saturday) | 10am-6pm (Sunday)
Location: Langley Events Centre, Vancouver

Books to read:

1. “21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act” by Bob Joseph
   Explores the historical and ongoing impact of the Indian Act on Indigenous Peoples in Canada.(Purchase at Black Bond Books)
   
   
2. “The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America” by Thomas King
   A provocative look at the history and issues surrounding Indigenous peoples in North America.(Purchase at Black Bond Books)
   
   
3. “They Called Me Number One” by Bev Sellars
   A personal account of the author’s experience in a residential school and its lasting effects. (Purchase at UBC Bookstore)
   
   
4. “Indigenous Writes: A Guide to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Issues in Canada” by Chelsea Vowel
   Provides insights into contemporary Indigenous issues in Canada. (Purchase at Indigo)
   
   
5. “Five Little Indians” by Michelle Good
   A novel following the lives of five residential school survivors as they struggle to overcome the trauma of their past. (Purchase at UBC Bookstore

Organizations to support:

1. Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS)
   Provides essential services to residential school survivors, their families, and those impacted by the schools.
   
   
2. Urban Native Youth Association (UNYA)
   Supports Indigenous youth in Vancouver through various programs and services.
   
   
3. First Nations Health Authority (FNHA)
   Focuses on the health and wellness of First Nations people in British Columbia.
   
   
4. Nisga’a Ts’amiks Vancouver Society
   Supports the Nisga’a community in Vancouver, providing cultural, social, and educational programs.
   
   
5. Reconciliation Canada
   Aims to foster dialogue and inspire positive action toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.

What lawyers can do:

Lawyers can play a critical role in advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, guided by frameworks such as the Law Society of British Columbia’s Indigenous Framework and other initiatives. The Law Society, through its framework adopted in 2022, outlines six key principles, including the expectation of Indigenous involvement in decisions affecting their interests and acknowledgment of Indigenous histories, cultures, and governance systems. Lawyers are encouraged to integrate these principles into their practice, ensuring culturally safe, trauma-informed regulatory processes. Additionally, the Canadian Bar Association (CBA) offers resources to support the profession’s role in truth and reconciliation through educational materials and action plans.

We hope these suggestions help you find meaningful ways to engage and reflect. Remember, the journey toward reconciliation is ongoing, and every step we take—whether through learning, attending events, or supporting community organizations—brings us closer to a more inclusive and understanding society.

Let’s continue this conversation together.