In the spirit of reconciliation and acknowledging the historical role of the Church in the residential school system, Greater St. Albert Catholic Schools in St. Albert, Alberta, are committed to fostering healing and growth within their school communities. A key priority in the organization’s three-year plan is to incorporate the teaching and learning of knowledge of First Nations, Inuit and Métis in educational plans.
Our Lady of Seven Sorrows is a Catholic parish in Maskwacis, Alberta with a long history in the Cree community it serves. Over the years, significant efforts have been made to revitalize the Cree language in the community, especially with younger generations. Cree classes are being taught in Maskwacis schools and at Maskwacis College in order to preserve and utilize the language.
Recognizing the importance of holistic well-being, TELUS World of Science-Edmonton (TWOSE) is stepping up its efforts to provide more comprehensive and culturally relevant programming for Indigenous youth.
Indigenous youth in urban settings experience significantly higher child poverty rates and overrepresentation in justice and child welfare systems in Canada. Education is recognized as a critical determinant for improving social outcomes, yet many Indigenous students face alienation and discouragement within the mainstream education system.
One in six men experiences childhood sexual abuse, a haunting statistic that has often been silenced, particularly within Indigenous communities. Kimberlite Media confronts this painful reality with "The Cost of Silence #UsToo – Healer’s Edition," a DVD training program and resource aimed at supporting those helping to heal survivors of childhood sexual abuse, specifically focusing on male survivors.
The Family Centre of Northern Alberta is dedicated to healing the profound impacts of colonization and generational trauma faced by Indigenous communities. Recognizing the legacy of Residential Schools, the 60's Scoop, and other colonial policies, the Centre believes in the power of reconciliation grounded in Indigenous worldviews and teachings.
Sport has the power to build a sense of belonging, enhance mental health, foster friendships, and boost school attendance and resilience. Recognizing this, Ever Active Schools (EAS), in collaboration with Jasper Place High School's Indigenous Leading Spirits Club in Edmonton, Alberta, is embarking on a journey to create an Indigenous Sports Program.
Healing and reconciliation are integral elements of providing culturally safe healthcare for Indigenous people. Covenant Health in Edmonton, Alberta is one of Canada's largest Catholic healthcare organizations, driven by a mission to support all individuals and deliver holistic healing for the body, mind, and soul, irrespective of identity.
Growing up in urban centers, Indigenous youth often experience a disconnection from their cultural roots and a lack of access to culturally safe resources and services. Since 2019, the Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association (ANFCA) has worked with youth from Friendship Centres across Alberta to address and support the unique needs of urban Indigenous youth.
Despite ongoing commitments and efforts towards Truth and Reconciliation, the lasting impacts of colonization continue to persist in Canada today. Indigenous people experience micro-aggressions, discrimination and outright racism in society, institutions and work environments, leading to struggles with cultural identities, feelings of hopelessness, and hesitancy to pursue opportunities due to fears of unfair treatment.
