09/30/2026
Today, on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, BC teachers recommit to teaching the truth and building a better future. We honour residential school survivors, their families, and generations of Indigenous people living with the harms of colonialism. As Justice Murray Sinclair said, “Education got us into this mess, and education will get us out of it.”
At a time when residential school denialism persists and we are witnessing disturbing displays of racism and white nationalism, that responsibility is more important than ever. Our job goes beyond teaching what happened. We must help students distinguish genuine historical inquiry from attempts to deny, minimize, or distort history.
Survivors have courageously shared their stories, and the historical record is clear. To survivors: We believe you, and we will continue to teach the truth so future generations can build a more just future.
As we confront the harms of the past, we also celebrate Indigenous strength and resurgence. Across our school communities, Indigenous teachers, students, and families are reclaiming languages, revitalizing cultures, and passing knowledge to new generations. There is hope in the Indigenous resurgence we see all around us, and in the futures Indigenous communities are shaping. 🧡
