Education provides a path to opportunities, economic independence, and a brighter future, ultimately supporting reconciliation and inspiring the next generation of Indigenous leaders. Yet, for many Indigenous youth living in remote or rural areas, access to education beyond elementary school can be difficult, sometimes impossible.
To address historical wrongs, rebuild trust, and foster lasting relationships, Catholic ministries across Canada are working toward reconciliation by bringing together Indigenous culture and the Catholic faith. This commitment has led to the creation of Indigenous ministries within dioceses nationwide, where cultural programs support healing and deepen connections between communities.
Food, dance and shared traditions are important medicine to heal from trauma. For Indigenous Peoples, traditional gatherings such as Pow Wows hold special significance, offering a chance to reconnect and celebrate ceremonies that were nearly lost.
Shockwaves rippled across Canada and the international community in 2021 with the discovery of suspected unmarked graves in British Columbia. For the people of the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and Indigenous people across Canada, it confirmed what they already knew: that hundreds of loved ones who had never returned home from residential school remained forever children.
2024 marks a milestone for the Niagara Regional Native Centre as it prepares to host the 10th annual Nurturing Our Roots Pow Wow. Through dances, songs, ceremonies, and stories, the Pow Wow celebrates togetherness, strengthens community ties, and promotes Indigenous heritage, identity, and culture. Over the past decade, Nurturing Our Roots has become a much-loved tradition that draws people of all backgrounds to come together and share in the experience.
The Peskotomuhkati Nation at Skutik in New Brunswick has long been committed to preserving its history, language, and culture. In 2018, the Canadian federal government transferred ownership of Camp Chiputneticook to the Nation. The property includes a historic lodge that is deeply tied to Passamaquoddy heritage and home to over 100 artefacts such as tools, beaded clothing, jewelry, woven baskets, and canoes, making it the first known collection of Passamaquoddy artefacts.
