Let’s Hold the Federal Government Accountable.

The purpose of Truth and Reconciliation is to address the devastating legacy of colonialism that Indigenous Peoples have and continue to endure. The federal government’s recent decision to cap funding for organizations supporting survivors’ healing and the ongoing search for missing children from residential schools stands in direct opposition to these efforts and is nothing short of an outrage. 

We are deeply concerned by the drastic cuts to the Indian  Residential School (IRS) program, which has reduced Indigenous access to mental health services from  60 sessions to 20 - a 67% decrease. Complex, intergenerational trauma requires comprehensive support through trauma-informed care, with an emphasis on holistic, community, and land-based healing, and these essential healing elements may not be adequately addressed within only 20 sessions.  

This setback will have detrimental impacts on Indigenous communities, leading to widespread, more costly consequences in the future. The Department of Justice (2019) found that, “It is almost impossible to estimate the extent of the negative intergenerational impacts of the residential school experience.  The results have been complex and tragic, including disproportionately high rates of physical and mental health problems, alcohol and drug abuse, cognitive impairment, interpersonal violence, and suicide” (p. 14). In 2020/2021, the Over-Representation Index - specifically designed to measure the disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous incarceration rates - found that the Indigenous incarceration rate was around 11 times higher than the non-Indigenous rate in Alberta (Statistics Canada, 2023). By  decreasing access to mental health care, this disparity has the potential to increase even further. 

The decision to cut funding for Indigenous well-being does not reflect the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation but instead continues to reinforce colonial structures. Undermining Indigenous healing violates fundamental human rights and cultural dignity. If we proceed  with these funding cuts, how do our actions differ from those of our colonizing ancestors? 

We strongly urge the federal government to reverse the reductions to mental health counselling services through the Indian Residential School (IRS) program and to increase culturally appropriate and holistic support for families. This issue demands immediate intervention to prevent further harm, support community healing, and live up to meaningful reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.

To genuinely honour the promises outlined in the Calls to Action (Truth and Reconciliation of Canada, 2015), we must uphold our commitments to the Health Actions, explicitly calling for the protection and development of Indigenous healing efforts. Please remember to keep Indigenous People in your hearts.

Let’s hold the federal government accountable. By signing this petition, you are helping to work towards a future rooted in justice, accountability, and healing. You are standing in solidarity with Indigenous communities and sending a clear message that reconciliation is not just symbolic—it must be backed by tangible, sustained action.

We call on all Canadians to demand that the federal government honour its commitments, reinstate full funding for the Indian Residential School (IRS) program, and ensure survivors and their families receive the mental health supports they rightfully deserve. This is not just about funding—it is about truth, justice, and repairing relationships that colonialism has deeply fractured.

Now is the time to move from words to action. The healing of Indigenous Peoples cannot be delayed, diminished, or dismissed. Reconciliation requires courageous leadership, community support, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is right.

Let’s stand together and take meaningful steps toward a future where all generations of Indigenous Peoples are supported, respected, and empowered.

Sign the petition. Demand change. Commit to reconciliation.

Want to advocate further? Reach out to your local MP to discuss action. Sign this petition to demonstrate your support. The more signatures, the more likely this is to get recognized at the federal level.