There are far fewer Survivors remaining since Canada’s apology in 2008 — this means that opportunities to listen to and learn from Survivors’ first-hand are few and far between. This national day of reflection helps recognize Survivors' voices while they are still able  tell their truths and experiences themselves. We at the NCTR heard from Survivors that this day is important for the future: by bringing remembrance into the public consciousness of all Canadians, our future generations will carry on the important task of what Survivors have asked us to do – to never forget what happened to them.
 
Since the discoveries of unmarked burials earlier this year, we are seeing changes in how Settler Canadians are listening to, understanding, and paying attention to the true history of Canada. Because we have seen this important shift, it is critical that we not lose momentum and that we continue the dialogue on missing children and unmarked burials. 

We hope that all Canadians take the time to learn and do the work that is needed towards Reconciliation.

This means uplifting and centering Indigenous voices, reading Indigenous authors, watching Indigenous-made films and documentaries, learning about Indigenous cultures, understanding the history of the land they live on, and learning that we are all Treaty peoples -- and what this means for you.
 
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action are not political. They were developed for all people in Canada to work toward and implement to correct the wrongs and set the country on a path towards Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
 
As part of this, they must take opportunities like September 30th to learn the truth about the legacy of colonialism and residential schools — because we cannot have Reconciliation without Truth.