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Honouring National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at AUSU

As September 30th approaches, the Athabasca University Students’ Union (AUSU) recognizes the profound significance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada. This day serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to acknowledge and address the historical and ongoing injustices endured by Indigenous peoples.

“It is important that we all remember and reflect on the mistreatment of Indigenous communities and peoples, that continue to this day. We must always, as a society, advocate for accountability, recognition, and reparations for all the harm that has been caused.”

Naju Syed, AUSU President

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, established in 2021, serves as a solemn occasion to honour and reflect on the devastating legacy of the residential school system. For over a century, Indigenous children were forcibly taken from their families and placed in these institutions, where they endured cultural erasure, emotional trauma, and widespread abuse. The lasting impact of this tragic chapter in Canadian history continues to resonate within Indigenous communities and individuals. This national observance goes beyond reflecting on the past—it serves as a call to build understanding, cultivate empathy, and advance reconciliation. This is a powerful reminder that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action remains as vital as ever. Designed to address the lasting impacts of colonization and promote healing and reconciliation, these calls demand our collective attention, active participation, and unwavering commitment.

“The Indigenous Circle reflects on this year’s Truth and Reconciliation period with hope and eagerness to represent the Indigenous students at Athabasca University. We share that our Indigenous history, culture, community, and perspective should be honored throughout the year, not just on September Thirtieth.
As a community of learners and practitioners, we encourage learning about Indigenous culture throughout your studies and daily life.”

Jessica Anderson, Indigenous Circle at AUSU

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is intrinsically linked to two other significant movements in Canada: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) and Every Child Matters.

  • Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW): This movement seeks justice and accountability for the disproportionately high rates of violence against Indigenous women and girls. It highlights the urgent need to address systemic issues and protect Indigenous women from violence. Recognizing this movement is integral to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation because it underscores the ongoing harm caused by historical injustices.
  • Every Child Matters: The heartbreaking discovery of unmarked graves at former residential school sites has profoundly impacted our nation. The “Every Child Matters” movement urges us to honour the lives lost and commit to meaningful reconciliation. It underscores the importance of understanding the true history of Indigenous peoples in Canada and working towards a more inclusive, just, and equitable society.

As members of the Athabasca University (AU) community, we must acknowledge our role in this journey towards reconciliation. AUSU remains dedicated to advancing the calls to action outlined by Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Our commitment includes advocating for the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives and content in AU’s curriculum, ensuring tailored support services for Indigenous students, and fostering meaningful dialogue and learning opportunities grounded in respect and understanding.

On September 30th, we encourage all of you to take a moment to reflect on the significance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and what it means for our shared future. Let us stand together, reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation, and work towards a more just and inclusive society.

If you would like to learn more about the Indigenous Circle at AUSU and its current members, check out the Indigenous Circle page.