Chrystal Tabobandung’s Post

Today is about two things: A) learning and speaking the truth about the history of colonialism in Canada and the harms done to First Nations, Inuit and Métis people. B) doing something that moves us towards reconciliation and healing. One way Kids Help Phone does this is through an Action Plan we call *Finding Hope*. It’s a powerful program developed and led by Indigenous people. Find out more: https://lnkd.in/gDbqxDnA

🌏🔶National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 🔶🌍 Today, on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we reflect on Canada's painful history of residential schools, where thousands of Indigenous children were separated from their families, and many never made it home. This moment reminds me of Brazil’s ongoing journey in addressing the impacts of colonization on Indigenous peoples, including the displacement and marginalization they have faced for generations. As a Brazilian living in Canada, I see parallels in both countries' struggles for justice, healing, and reconciliation. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of learning from history to create a more inclusive and respectful future for all. #TruthAndReconciliation #EveryChildMatters #HonourAndRemember

My son once asked me, “Am I the right colour?” That question hit me hard. As a mother and an immigrant from a land that was colonized—a place where we are still grappling with the effects of colonization—it made me pause. It forced me to think about the painful legacy of oppression and the world my son is growing up in. The struggle for identity and belonging is not new, but it’s heartbreaking to know that even today, our children are carrying that burden. On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I reflect on the resilience of Indigenous communities in Canada and the horrific history of residential schools. This day is about more than just remembering—it’s about acknowledging the deep injustices that persist and committing to being part of the solution. Coming from a country still scarred by the impacts of colonization, I understand how trauma doesn’t disappear with time. It continues to affect generations, shaping the way we see ourselves and the world. So today, as I honour the truth of Canada’s history, I also think of the global effects of colonization that many of us still live with. For me, reconciliation is about more than just looking back at the past—it’s about taking meaningful steps toward a future where no child, Indigenous or otherwise, has to wonder if they are “the right colour” to belong. It’s about actively listening, learning, and contributing to change, so that every child can grow up confident in their identity and heritage. #TruthAndReconciliation #EveryChildMatters #ReflectAndAct #NationalDayForTruthAndReconciliation

Traveling through northern Alberta, it may sometimes seem as if there’s not much to see—miles and miles of farmland, dusty roads, and wheat as far as the eye can see. But if you take the time to get off the MacKenzie Highway and head down a small dirt township road, you might be amazed at the hidden history and lessons in faith you could uncover. This is a picture of Saints Peter and Paul Russo-Greek Orthodox Catholic Parish in North Star, Alberta. Six kilometers down a dirt road, nestled between fields, you’ll find this small Orthodox church, first established in the 1920s. It stands as an incredible testament to the importance of having a place for worship, community, tradition, and history. For the rural, poor immigrant families of the time, coming together to worship as a family was a priority. We live in a wonderfully multicultural and diverse world, where it’s great to learn from one another and find community together. Since the beginning of time, humanity has sought identity and community, and this identity—this community—is only truly found in the body of Christ. When we build places of true worship and community, we help build God’s kingdom, and we become family. Too often, we have taken community for granted, and today, we see that slowly impacting our world. Fun side note: The kids were napping when we spotted this church. Isabelle jumped out (and back in!) of our moving car to snap this picture. Now that's dedication to capturing moments! 📸 #HiddenHistory #FaithJourney #RuralChurch #AlbertaExplorer #CommunityOfFaith #northernlights #NorthernCanada #Alberta #traveler #Canada #orthodox #russianorthodox #Immigration

What is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation? Canada has a rich and diverse culture, but beneath the surface lies a history that we must first acknowledge and then confront to move forward. This brings us to restoring Truth with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, observed every year on September 30. Three ways to make the day meaningful: 1. Educate yourself and others. Learn about the unique histories, cultures, and contributions of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples by reading books, watching documentaries, and participating in workshops.  2. Support Indigenous businesses and artists. Purchase products from Indigenous-owned businesses and support Indigenous artists.  3. Participate in community events. Many communities host events to commemorate this day —attend them. Learn more about the significance of Canada’s National Day for Reconciliation: https://lnkd.in/g7Surqp5

Reflection on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is just the beginning. If you are looking to deepen your understanding and continue learning, we encourage you to explore the article below. ⬇

On this National Day for Truth & Reconciliation 🧡🧡I stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities across Canada, reflecting on the deep injustices and ongoing impacts of colonialism. The legacy of residential schools is not just a painful chapter in history it’s a reality that continues to affect generations of Indigenous families today. We cannot speak of justice without acknowledging the systemic racism and oppression that Indigenous peoples have endured for centuries. It’s time for us to do more than remember we must work collectively toward meaningful change, dismantling the structures that continue to marginalize and silence Indigenous voices. Let us commit to amplifying Indigenous stories, pushing for policies that address inequality and ensuring that “Every Child Matters.” Real justice will only be achieved when we honor these truths with sustained action.

Aboriginal Australians are not all the same. We don't have the same cultures. We don't have the same country (Ngurra. Ancestral lands.) We have different languages and different lore. We have been impacted uniquely by colonisation. Location based impact. The impact in the Pilbara is different to Perth. For those Aboriginal Australians impacted earlier by colonisation than others, they have less Gaps than those who were impacted later. Impact of colonisation determines: 1. The impact to our culture and way of life (access to country is largely restricted due to mining. Greater the impact, the greater the loss of cultural knowledge and practice). 2. The timing of access to education, training, and employment. 3. The Gaps of inequalities (unique to each location- not national statistics). 4. What must be reconciled based on the racist and discriminatory behaviours of white Australians in the unique location for more than 150 years. What must be reconciled based on the inequalities of rights (white Australians have had rights for 236 years. Aboriginal Australians have had rights since 1967 (57 years). That's 179 years head start on us participating in mainstream.

My Ancestors Have Fought - Now it's My Turn Notably, there is much talk that the youth of our country are oblivious to, unappreciative of, and otherwise disinterested in our nation's history, culture and heritage. I fervently disagree. As a youth myself, and a teacher to youth in the disciplines of History, Sociology and Social Studies (spanning 1st to 6th form in some cases), all from varying communities and pursuing varying aspirations in life... one thing is true - There is much perturbation among youth, in light of the recent proposal by the PSOJ (Private Sector Organization of Jamaica) to merge the Emancipation Day and Independence Day national holidays, into a single, extended weekend holiday period (Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday) - to ensure the continuity of production and to bolster economic stability. Causing more irate, is the insensitive overreach, albeit a proposal, to celebrate these holidays on dates that are a mismatch to the actual dates, which bears immense historical significance. It's proposals like these, that subtly underscores, that the declining significance of our history and culture doesn't start in the classrooms, but rather, trickle into it- from our other social institutions and the actors therein. Arguably, proposals have their place in the process of decision making. That's how slavery was instituted. It was proposed. Unfortunately, my enslaved ancestors for centuries, didn't have the freedom to add their views to the decision making process. Fast forward to contemporary society, I, a daughter of the soil, can freely express my resolute stance, that the days symbolic of freedom and self governance should stand... like trees, anchored with roots. August 1st and 6th, are distinctly separate. Let's keep the dates matching the celebrations. And while we're at it, let us be wary of commercializing and consumerizing our heritage and culture to the point of sacrificing significance and identity. #UNIA #EmancipationDay #IndependenceDay

On Truth and Reconciliation Day, we take a moment to honor those impacted by the legacy of residential schools. It’s important to recognize that the effects of this history extend beyond those who directly experienced it. Many believe that if they weren’t part of the system, they weren’t affected. However, the reality is that trauma can reverberate through families for generations. As the daughter of a survivor taken from his family at a young age, I can attest to the profound impact these experiences have had on my life and my children’s lives. My father carries painful memories that have shaped his behavior and, ultimately, our relationship. This highlights the critical need for understanding and addressing the lasting effects of trauma within families and communities. Engaging in conversations about this history is essential for healing and reconciliation. By acknowledging the past, we can better support one another and work towards a more inclusive future. Let’s commit to fostering understanding and dialogue on this important issue. I would like to personally thank the person that created this question inside our Masked Asks so that Melodie Lincz could respond (beautifully I may add). #chillhr #truthandreconciliation