The community of Welamukotuk (Oromocto First Nation) in Oromocto, New Brunswick, is dealing with an increase in mental health issues and addiction. Lingering effects of post-pandemic isolation, coupled with poverty and limited support options, have intensified these challenges for community members.

The impacts of colonization and the residential school system continue to reverberate through Indigenous communities, resulting in the loss of culture, language, and traditional parenting knowledge. Intergenerational trauma has contributed to cycles of substance abuse, violence, and suicide, leaving many Indigenous parents overwhelmed and communities fractured.

Advancing Reconciliation is the third in a series of three workshops hosted by Returning To Spirit, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization located in Treaty 1 territory in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Sandy Bay First Nation, located near Amaranth, Manitoba, is taking steps to help youth in the community cope with intergenerational trauma and loss of cultural identity. Recognizing the devastating struggles with substance abuse among its young people, the Council of Elders has been looking at ways to revitalize traditional spiritual beliefs and values in alignment with Christian teachings.

Indigenous Residential School Survivors across Canada continue to grapple with the impacts of trauma, in addition to facing barriers to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. In Regina, Saskatchewan, the Regina Survivors Circle (RSC) provides a safe and supportive space for Survivors to share their stories, find connections, and reclaim their cultural heritage.

Many newcomers who arrive in Canada seeking refuge, opportunity and a better life are unaware of the history and ongoing journey of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in this country. The People Bridge Advocacy (PBA) in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan has been addressing this gap by providing on-going Truth and Reconciliation education and activities for immigrants and refugees.

In 2023, Balcarres Community School in Saskatchewan embarked on an initiative to engage students, many of whom are members of neighbouring First Nation communities, in truth and reconciliation. Under the guidance of their teachers, students produced artwork that depicts the 94 Calls to Action outlined by the National Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada.

In today’s digital age, youth face increasing challenges, with engagement beyond cell phones and other devices often lacking. Urban Indigenous youth in particular are vulnerable, often missing familial support and a sense of belonging. It is important to create spaces and experiences that offer them a sense of community, cultural connection, and purpose amidst these challenges.

Indigenous Peoples have endured the loss of many traditional teachings and practices, particularly due to the legacy of the residential school system. Among these losses are the art of drum making and drumming, which hold deep cultural significance and reflect the unique identity of Indigenous communities.

In an effort to revitalize traditional skills, Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples in Edmonton is hosting sewing classes for community members. Led by a sewing teacher working in collaboration with an Elder, these classes aim to share traditional sewing techniques and knowledge.