09/30/2025
The Ontario Archaeological Society (OAS) recognizes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. On this day, we will reflect upon the Residential School system in Canada—honouring those who survived, as well as commemorating those who never returned home. According to the official web page, “Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process”: https://buff.ly/3hX67UO.
Reflecting on this painful history is vital, certainly, but not easy. This year, we repeat the message that we need to have more Indigenous engagement in all spheres of Ontario archaeology (particularly in contexts relating to the lab work and curation of cultural items), and that in order to better serve Indigenous heritage interests, heritage professionals need more governmental funding and support. In addition, the OAS Board of Directors would like to acknowledge those doing the most difficult work of us all—our Indigenous colleagues and friends. We see the stress involved in doing that work and the uphill challenges of dealing with the fast pace of development and particularly with the proposed provincial government changes to the Ontario Heritage Act and other heritage framework directives through “Bill 5, Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act” and the “Protect Ontario by Cutting Red Tape Act, 2025.”
In Canada, we also continue to see the effects of Intergenerational Traumas, so that family members are still being affected even if they did not attend Residential Schools, or Day Schools, or were not part of the 1960s scoop. It is not acknowledged often enough how much time, energy, and care must be invested into healing from those traumas. Moreover, many Indigenous individuals—especially those working in and alongside the heritage sector—are not only concerned with healing from their own personal traumas, but also working to help those of their family and community. This labour, while it is of the utmost importance, all too often goes unrecognized in Canadian society.
This year, the OAS asks that settler allies remember that the Indigenous members of our archaeological community must contend with the shadow left behind by Residential Schools, not just today, but all 365 days of the year. We ask that if you have a little extra money, you might consider donating to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation:
https://buff.ly/eIXniE9
And if finances are tight, then we only ask that you work to spread education and kindness within your own sphere—whether that be speaking a supportive word, lending a listening ear, or giving space when needed.
A few other ways you can show your support:
🟠 Wear an orange shirt
To learn more about the history and meaning behind “Orange Shirt Day” visit https://buff.ly/yEb6hyy
🟠 Take part in a local event:
Barrie
Sacred Fire and Sunrise Ceremony: https://buff.ly/n1DzkOD
Brantford
Official unveiling of the former Mohawk Institute Residential School as an Interpretive Historic Site by the Woodland Cultural Centre: https://buff.ly/XaRkddf
Hamilton
Sunrise Ceremony & Afternoon Gathering - James St Plaza: https://buff.ly/ngRieiJ
Kitchener – Waterloo
Truth and Reconciliation Remember Me Walk: https://buff.ly/7oym0kQ
Ottawa
Reconciling History walking tours and more by The Caring Society, Assembly of 7 Generations, and Beechwood Cemetery: https://buff.ly/SIKMbUm
Thunder Bay
Fort William First Nation 10th Annual Fall Traditional Gathering at Anemki Wajiw/Mount McKay: https://buff.ly/RHeG1LH
Toronto
8th Indigenous Legacy Gathering at Nathan Philips Square (event livestream available): https://buff.ly/0d8trEf
Windsor
The Witness Blanket exhibit at the Chimczuk Museum: https://buff.ly/styH8L0
🟠 Learn more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation:
https://nctr.ca/
🟠 Take ReconciliACTION:
https://buff.ly/HtKYabQ
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The following helplines and chat-based platforms provide support to Residential School Survivors and their families:
National Residential School Crisis Line:
Phone: 1-866-925-4419. This service is available 24/7 and toll-free.
Hope and Wellness Help Line:
Phone: 1-855-242-3310. This service is available 24/7 and toll-free.
Connect online: https://buff.ly/2TKrGKt
Take part in a local event:
