Supporting and acknowledging the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Acknowledging the history and ongoing impact of residential schools upon Indigenous peoples is a vital part of our national journey towards reconciliation. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a small part of that work, but it is an important step on a lengthy path. In 2022, the GNWT encouraged all NWT residents to observe this day by honouring those who have been lost, as well as the survivors, families and communities who continue to grieve. 

In 2022, the GNWT made funding available to communities to observe the Day in the way that they think most appropriate. Moving forward, the GNWT seeks to learn more about how it could provide additional support on this important day. 

Ensuring that the Day meaningfully and genuinely fosters healing and reconciliation, the GNWT seeks the input and insight of Indigenous peoples, with a series of questions that we hope will initiate discussion and result in a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation that is respectful, inclusive and meaningful.

We will also be talking to Indigenous governments and asking the public these same questions. Once we have gathered all of the information, we will make some recommendations to the GNWT on the best ways to acknowledge and support that National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in future years.

The GNWT looks forward to learning what role our partners think the GNWT should play to respectfully and meaningfully acknowledge the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

The GNWT recognizes that this is a difficult, yet necessary conversation and that residents may need support.

• 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.
• In the NWT, the NWT Help Line offers free support. It is 100% free and confidential and has an option for follow-up calls. To talk to a trained responder, call the NWT Helpline at 1-800-661-0844.