InSTEM

Today is Canada’s 2nd National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – a day to recognize and commemorate the legacy of the Canadian residential school system and the Indigenous Peoples, families and communities affected.

Actua’s National Indigenous Youth in STEM (InSTEM) program has worked for decades to address the deep intergenerational impacts of residential schools and the present-day need to dismantle systemic barriers in Indigenous education. We believe Indigenous youth should be able to participate in education without sacrificing their Indigenous Knowledge and that aligning Indigenous Knowledge and worldviews within Western education systems is fundamental to reconciliation. 

Through our work with Indigenous communities, education authorities and Actua network members across Canada, we have witnessed reconciliation in action. We have seen more and more people across Canada come to understand and take action against the harm and injustices imposed on Indigenous Peoples. And as a result, we’ve seen reconciliation evolve from something that’s talked about once or twice a year to something that’s being discussed and addressed on a daily basis. 

Still, Actua firmly acknowledges that reconciliation is an ongoing effort. We remain committed to taking every opportunity to learn about the history of residential schools, listen to survivors’ stories and reflect on our role in creating a better, more equitable future for all. 

We encourage everyone in Canada to recognize the role they play in reconciliation and continue to learn about the perspectives, cultures and histories of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Here are just a few resources:

• Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
• #IndigenousReads
• Reconciliation: A Starting Point Mobile app
• Truth and Reconciliation Report
• We Are All Treaty People
• CBC Kids
• Native-land.ca

For anyone who may need immediate assistance and support, the National Indian Residential School Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day at 1-866-925-4419.