CMHA Ottawa observes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Sep 30, 2024

On September 30th, CMHA Ottawa stands in solidarity 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 their communities.

While it is crucial to acknowledge the ongoing challenges rooted in our shared history, it is equally important to recognize and celebrate the remarkable achievements of Indigenous peoples in areas such as mental health, academia, the arts, and advocacy. Indigenous communities are leading the way in creating vibrant, empowered futures, and we are committed to supporting these efforts and learning from their leadership.

Action, Not Just Words

It is not enough to acknowledge these harms. We must act. The calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) make clear the path forward: the health care system, including mental
health services, must listen to and support Indigenous communities. This means centering Indigenous knowledge, amplifying Indigenous voices, and investing in Indigenous-led solutions.

A Commitment to Reconciliation and Indigenous Mental Health

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

• Supporting Indigenous-led mental health initiatives that honour traditional healing practices and ways of being.
• Engaging in meaningful partnerships with 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 Indigenous peoples.
• Promoting self-determination by valuing Indigenous approaches to mental health and well-being.

Take Action and Learn More

This September 30th, CMHA Ottawa 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/

Please note, we will be closed on Monday as we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Also known as Orange Shirt Day, Sept. 30th is a day to honour residential school Survivors, partake in meaningful conversations about the history and legacy of the residential school system, learn and share the truth about Canada’s harmful colonial past and how it affects its present, and take steps toward advancing reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis.

Mental health supports:

• Former residential school students can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports from the Government of Canada.
• Indigenous peoples across Canada can also go to The Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week for counselling and crisis intervention.
• Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat.