The **94 Calls to Action** are recommendations issued by the **Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC)** in 2015. These calls are meant to redress the legacy of **residential schools** and advance the process of Canadian reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. The actions span various areas, including child welfare, education, health, justice, and commemoration.
You're right—many people may feel overwhelmed by the breadth of these calls. However, individuals, organizations, and communities can contribute in practical ways over a shorter time frame. Here are 10 actions that could be accomplished within the next six months:
1. **Support Indigenous-Owned Businesses**
Commit to purchasing from **Indigenous artisans and businesses**. This directly supports economic reconciliation by empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities.
2. **Read Indigenous Authors**
Choose to read books, articles, or essays by **Indigenous authors** and learn about their histories and perspectives. Books like *"The Inconvenient Indian"* by Thomas King or *"21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act"* by Bob Joseph are good starting points.
3. **Take an Indigenous History Course**
Enroll in an online course about Indigenous history in Canada. Several Canadian universities, such as the University of Alberta, offer free or low-cost **courses on Indigenous history** and reconciliation.
4. **Advocate for Indigenous Rights**
Write letters to local MPs or government representatives, urging them to implement specific **Calls to Action** from the TRC, such as ensuring Indigenous peoples have better access to healthcare (Call to Action 19) or equitable funding for child welfare services (Call to Action 3).
5. **Promote Land Acknowledgements**
If you're part of an organization, encourage them to **implement regular land acknowledgments** at the beginning of meetings or events, recognizing the traditional territories of Indigenous peoples.
6. **Support Indigenous Language Revitalization**
Donate or volunteer with organizations that work toward **preserving Indigenous languages**, which are an integral part of cultural identity. Calls to Action 13 to 16 specifically address the need for language and cultural preservation.
7. **Donate to Indigenous-Led Initiatives**
Consider donating to **Indigenous-led charities** and organizations focused on issues such as mental health, education, and community rebuilding, such as the Indian Residential School Survivors Society.
8. **Attend Cultural Events**
Attend local **Indigenous cultural events**, such as powwows, storytelling circles, or art exhibits. Engaging with these events shows respect and support for Indigenous cultures and their ongoing contributions to Canadian society.
9. **Educate Others**
Hold a small event, book club, or discussion group with family, friends, or coworkers to discuss the **Truth and Reconciliation** process and why it’s important. Sharing what you've learned helps spread awareness and encourages others to take action.
10. **Volunteer with Indigenous Youth Programs**
Get involved with local programs that support **Indigenous youth**, whether through mentoring, tutoring, or providing resources. Many Calls to Action (such as 7, 10, and 66) focus on the education and future success of Indigenous children and youth.
By focusing on these concrete actions over the next six months, individuals can contribute meaningfully to the ongoing process of reconciliation, helping to create lasting change in their communities.
No comments:
Post a Comment