Indigenous Support and Resources
The Region of Durham exists on lands that the Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg inhabited for thousands of years prior to European colonization. These lands are the traditional and treaty territories of the Nations covered under the Williams Treaties, including the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, Alderville First Nation, Hiawatha First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, and the Chippewa Nations of Georgina Island, Beausoleil and Rama.We honour, recognize, and respect Indigenous Peoples as rights holders and stewards of the lands and waters on which we have the privilege to live. In our efforts towards reconciliation, we continue to build and strengthen relationships with First Nations, as well as the large Métis community and growing Inuit community here in Durham. We commit to learning from Indigenous values and knowledge, building opportunities for collaboration, and recognizing that we are all connected.Learn more about treaties and land acknowledgements.
First Nations, Inuit and Métis people and communities have distinct histories, languages, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs. Today, Durham is home to the Mississauga Nation and a large Métis community. Find out more about the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and the Oshawa and Durham Region Métis Council.
Durham Region recognizes the painful legacy and continued impact of colonization, residential schools and discriminatory laws on Indigenous communities. The Region is committed to advancing truth and reconciliation, and working towards building renewed relationships to address past harms. At Regional Headquarters, we have installed a commemorative orange crosswalk and accompanying plaque to honour the children taken, families left behind and survivors of Canada's residential school system.
This permanent installation represents our pathway forward; our commitment to walking beside Indigenous communities; continuing our learning journey; and creating spaces for healing and community building.
Residential School Survivors Helpline: 1-866-925-4419
We are sharing information and resources for Indigenous Peoples and others impacted by the residential school system on this page. This content includes distressing information - we hope that you can access the resources you need to feel supported.
Indian Residential School Survivor's Society (IRSSS)
A provincial organization with a twenty-year history of providing services to Indian Residential School Survivors.
Watch the following videos to learn more about the devastating impact of the residential school system.
Each year on September 30 the Region acknowledges National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day provides us with time to reflect on relationships—both past and present—with Indigenous Peoples. This is just one step on the long and important journey ahead towards reconciliation.
In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada released a comprehensive report on residential schools and their lasting impacts. The report included 94 Calls to Action that provide a road map towards reconciliation for all sectors of Canadian society.
Learn more:
| Land Acknowledgements |
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A territorial or land acknowledgement is an act of reconciliation that involves making a statement recognizing the traditional territory of the Indigenous Peoples who called the land home since time immemorial, before the arrival of settlers. As guests on this land, it is important that we acknowledge the distinct impact of colonialism that prevents the people, animals and plants, who are Indigenous to this territory, from being here. It is imperative for us to take the time to learn and understand the stories of the true knowledge keepers of the land that we currently call home. In developing your statement, ensure you know the correct name of the Indigenous Peoples stewarding the land and can pronounce the names properly. Use past, present and future tense to show that you are aware that Indigenous Peoples are still here and continue to be stewards of this land. Although the statement is a significant acknowledgement, it should not be sorrowful or apologetic but instead evoke a sense of empowerment with Indigenous Peoples. |
| Tools and Resources |
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Note: The content listed below may include distressing details for viewers and readers. Support is available - please use the resources on this page or call the helpline for residential school survivors at 1-866-925-4419.
Culturally safe counseling and support resources for Indigenous peoples For immediate support, call the Residential School Survivors Helpline: 1-866-925-4419. |
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