Support Canadian Indigenous Communities

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The long-standing fight for Indigenous rights in Canada was renewed with vigor after the unmarked Graves of over 200 children were discovered in the Indian residential school in Kamloops, B.C. The discovery attracted the attention of the media, individuals, and organizations.

The unfortunate incident has not only intensified the fight for the rights of indigenous schools but also general human rights in indigenous communities. Although it is a complicated process that requires time, the struggle will be won with the right attitude and dedication. To join the fight, here are some crucial actions you can take.

Be Compassionate and Considerate While the Indigenous Communities Mourn

Due to the denial of their rights to live and be free, Indigenous communities suffered greatly. The violent nature of these cruel and unspeakable acts often led to the deaths of the members of these communities. The recent discovery of the Kamloops school graves is a heart-breaking reminder of past events.

The Indigenous communities are still traumatized by the unbearable memories; hence they need your compassion. You should listen as they speak out and support them in whatever capacity you can.

Read About Indigenous Schools and Listen to Survivors Stories

The abuse, violence, and horrors centred around the Indigenous school have led to in-depth reflections and the need to understand the story, history, and origin of Indigenous schools. To understand, you can educate yourself on how they were founded, funded, and maintained by churches and governments.

There are many books and articles on these stories, but you should go beyond just reading books. Listen to the accounts of the survivors from the interviews they granted to give you an in-depth understanding of what they passed through. Read archival videos, browse dedicated websites, etc.

Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Final Report on the Matter

Although it is a painful and heart-wrenching read, it is impossible to ignore the TRC report. After reading the report, you will have a deep understanding of the residential school system in operation for over 100 years and how little children were forcefully taken from their homes and families. The TRC has continuously called on governments to make right the injustices done to the communities.

Support Members of the Indigenous Communities

Today, several members of these communities are entrepreneurs, artists, community organizers, business owners, among other things. While you can’t change the past, you can improve the future of these people. Show your support by promoting indigenous arts and culture, buying these products, and gifting them to friends and family.

By so doing, you will not only empower these businesses but will also lift many out of poverty by fostering economic development. You can also support by becoming a volunteer in different institutions and organizations.

Donate Your Money and Resources to Indigenous Organizations

Many Indigenous organizations are currently doing all they can to support and empower members of the Indigenous communities. While they are recording successes, there’s more that needs to be done. They need more funds and resources.

To show your support, you can directly make donations to Indigenous organizations. Some such organizations include Orange shirt Society, Residential School Survivors Society, and Family Caring Society, among other Indigenous organizations.