National Indigenous History Month

Actua is heartbroken to hear the news of the tragic discoveries on the grounds of former residential schools across Canada. This is and should be a time for national grieving.

But grieving alone is not enough. Reconciliation requires unrelenting action.

These children represent a small fraction of the thousands of Indigenous children and adults who have died or disappeared throughout history. These discoveries are a stark reminder of the intergenerational trauma Indigenous communities have faced and continue to face. All Canadians, especially those in leadership positions, must do even more to uphold the rights of Indigenous peoples and build trusting relationships with them.

Actua stands with and will continue to support Indigenous communities to heal and address these injustices in the true intent of reconciliation. This news further ignites our desire to dismantle systemic barriers in Indigenous education. Our goal is to collaborate with Indigenous leaders, educators, communities and youth to advocate for and create meaningful and sustainable change that improves the education experience for Indigenous youth.

We’re currently working with Indigenous leaders to advocate for Indigenous land-based education as a relevant, meaningful and culturally appropriate way to integrate Indigenous worldviews into mainstream education. We’ve seen the impact land-based education has on Indigenous youth through our InSTEM Program and believe it is an invaluable tool in ensuring Indigenous youth thrive throughout their education and into their careers.

Over the next year, we will continue to strengthen and deepen the impact of InSTEM, while remembering that reconciliation is an on-going journey and our work is never done.

Best,

Jennifer Flanagan                          Doug Dokis

President and CEO                        Director, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Program