The youth participants of Culturelink’s ON Indigenous Land Project have united with a deep commitment to effect positive change in their communities. Collaborating with Indigenous facilitators and leaders, along with artist Blake Angeconeb, we have developed a petition focused on the urgent need for culturally appropriate early childhood education programs for Indigenous families. 
  
This initiative is rooted in the 12th Call to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Report, which calls upon all levels of government to prioritize the creation of educational resources that respect and reflect Indigenous cultures. 
 
Despite the importance of this call, progress has been stagnant. The National Progress Report on Early Learning and Childcare has not been updated since August 22, 2019, with only a handful of provinces providing information about their Indigenous initiatives. This lack of accountability is troubling, especially considering that 42% of Indigenous communities comprise youth under the age of 25. 

Studies show that Indigenous children score lower on the Early Development Instrument (EDI), with up to 40% of Indigenous children being considered vulnerable in areas like communication skills and emotional maturity.  

Only 1 in 5 Indigenous families have access to culturally appropriate early intervention services for children with developmental delays. 
Approximately 22% of Indigenous children aged 0-5 are enrolled in early childhood education programs, compared to around 66% of non-Indigenous children.  

Approximately 60% of First Nations on-reserve communities lack regulated childcare spaces, creating significant gaps in accessible childcare options.

Less than 25% of childcare providers in non-Indigenous settings have received training in cultural competency regarding Indigenous practices and beliefs. For example: only about 20% of Indigenous children learn their ancestral languages, which highlights the need for culturally relevant early childhood programs.

These statistics above highlight the critical need for tailored support and resources for Indigenous children and families. Our petition calls on Employment and Social Development Canada to provide an update on the National Progress Report on Early Learning and Childcare and demands that all provinces and territories clearly outline their commitments to Indigenous initiatives. We seek transparency in funding allocations and a commitment to tangible changes. 

Through this initiative, the youth of the ON Indigenous Land Project are standing together to advocate for a brighter future for Indigenous children and families. Join us in amplifying our voices and driving the change our communities need.

Together, we can create a better tomorrow.