We recognize that this news release may contain information that is difficult for many readers. For immediate emotional support, Survivors and their families are encouraged to contact the National Residential Schools Crisis Line for immediate emotional and referral support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, toll-free at 1-866-925-4419.

The Hope for Wellness Helpline is also available to all Indigenous people across Canada. Experienced and culturally competent counsellors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-855-242-3310 or via online chat at www.hopeforwellness.ca. This service is available 24/7 in English and French and upon request in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut.

October 1, 2024 — Ottawa, unceded Algonquin Traditional Territory, Ontario — Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Canada’s history is forever stained by the tragic reality of the residential school system, which forcibly separated Indigenous children from their families and communities, subjecting them to abuse and neglect and prohibiting them from practicing their cultures, traditions and languages. Today, First Nations, Inuit and Métis residential school Survivors gathered on the unceded territory of the Anishinabeg Algonquin People to re-raise the Survivors’ Flag on Parliament Hill. Survivors came together to share their truths about the residential school system and honour the memory of all the children who never returned home.

Survivors, Elder Claudette Commanda, and the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) were joined at this commemorative event by leaders of National Indigenous Organizations, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, and the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations.

The Survivors’ Flag on Parliament Hill honours the children who never returned home from residential school and acknowledges the enduring trauma and ongoing impacts on Survivors and the generations that came after them. It serves as an important reminder of the shameful treatment of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and symbolizes Canada’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation.