September 30 marked the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.
We honoured survivors of the residential school system, remembered the children who never returned home, and acknowledged the families and communities who continue to live with the impacts of these institutions.
For Indigenous peoples, these histories are not distant. The effects of residential schools continue across generations of families, communities, and relationships. Here in our region, that history is particularly close. The Mohawk Institute operated for generations on the lands of Six Nations of the Grand River, and its legacy continues to be carried by survivors, their families and the community.
Truth must remain at the centre of reconciliation
That means learning the history of residential schools and the systems that created them. It also means understanding the broader history and present day realities of Indigenous communities, including Indigenous rights, cultures, languages, knowledge systems and relationships to the lands and territories on which institutions such as McMaster operate.
Universities have a particular responsibility in this work. Education was used as an instrument of colonialism and assimilation. It must now also be a place where truth is taught, Indigenous knowledge is respected, Indigenous students, staff and faculty are supported, and relationships with Indigenous communities are built with care and accountability.
Reconciliation cannot be confined to one day
It is reflected in the relationships we build, the decisions institutions make, the knowledge we value and the actions we take throughout the year.
As we move beyond September 30, I encourage members of the McMaster community to continue making space for remembrance, learning and reflection. Listen to survivors and Indigenous voices. Learn about the lands and communities around us. Consider what responsibilities come with that knowledge, and how those responsibilities can shape your work throughout the year.
To survivors, families and communities: we honour you, we remember the children, and we acknowledge the strength that Indigenous peoples continue to carry forward.
Dr. Beverly Jacobs Vice-Provost (Indigenous)
Community, Indigenous
Community, University Leadership
Community, Teaching & Learning