CMHA TVAMHS Observes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Sep 27, 2024

On September 30th, CMHA TVAMHS stands with Indigenous communities to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day honours the strength and resilience of residential school survivors, their families, and communities.

While it is crucial to acknowledge the ongoing challenges rooted in Canada’s history, it is equally important to recognize and celebrate the remarkable achievements of First Nation, Inuit, Métis, and Urban Indigenous people in areas such as mental health and wellness. We are committed to working with First Nation, Inuit, Métis, and Urban Indigenous communities and organizations to learn about community specific priorities and to co-create actions together.

Action, Not Just Words

It is not enough to acknowledge ongoing colonialism.
We must act.
The 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Report make clear the path forward: the health care system, including mental health services, must listen to and support communities. This means centering First Nation, Inuit, Métis, and Urban Indigenous knowledge, amplifying Indigenous voices, and investing in Indigenous-led solutions.

CMHA TVAMHS is working to ensure equitable access to culturally appropriate services for the communities we serve. Our plan can be found here.

A Commitment to Reconciliation and Indigenous Mental Health

Many CMHA Ontario branches are working in partnership with First Nation, Inuit, Métis, and Urban Indigenous leaders and organizations to address the mental health crisis. Across the province, we are committed to:

• Supporting First Nation, Inuit, Métis, and Urban Indigenous-led mental health initiatives that honour traditional healing practices and ways of being.
• Engaging in meaningful partnerships with First Nation, Inuit, Métis, and Urban Indigenous communities to co-create mental health programs.
• Offering Indigenous cultural awareness training for staff to ensure services respect and understand the unique needs of First Nation, Inuit, Métis, and Urban Indigenous peoples.
• Promoting self-determination by valuing First Nation, Inuit, Métis, and Urban Indigenous approaches to mental health and well-being.

Take Action and Learn More

This September 30th, CMHA TVAMHS urges everyone to take time to reflect, learn, and support Indigenous-led initiatives. Reconciliation requires more than words—it demands action. Together, we can build a future rooted in social justice, equity, and mutual respect.

For a list of Truth and Reconciliation events open to the public, visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: https://nctr.ca/

Local Resources

Atlohsa Family Healing Services
Southwestern Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre
N’Amerind (London) Friendship Centre Inc.
Chippewas of the Thames First Nation
Oneida Nation of the Thames
Munsee-Delaware Nation