National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Skate Canada joins those taking time to mourn, listen, and learn with Indigenous communities of Turtle Island. We recognize sport and society are reflections of each other, and commit to working toward truth and reconciliation within the skating community.

Education is essential for truth and reconciliation. If you are not sure where to begin, to learn about residential schools, and survivors’ stories, start here: Residential Schools podcast series; TRC volume featuring survivors’ stories; exhibits (links to add —

“Where are the Children” website and virtual exhibit: https://legacyofhope.ca/wherearethechildren/

Witness Blanket http://witnessblanket.ca/#! )

We also encourage you to learn more about the role of sport in residential schools

• Janice Forsyth and Audrey Giles, eds. Aboriginal Peoples and Sport in Canada; Historical Foundations and Contemporary Issues (UBC Press, 2013), including the chapter on “Sports and Games at Canadian Residential Schools” (link: https://www.canadashistory.ca/explore/books/sport-and-reconciliation)
• Courtney Szto, “Things we Don’t Talk About: Residential Schools and hockey,” Hockey in Society, 7 February 2016 https://hockeyinsociety.com/2016/02/07/things-we-dont-talk-about-residential-schools-and-hockey/
• Conversation with Alan Downey: Indigenous History in Sports https://m.facebook.com/McMasterMarauders/videos/conversation-with-dr-allan-downey-indigenous-history-in-sport/1110062852853660/
• Evan J. Habkirk and Janice Forsyth, “Truth, Reconciliation, and the Politics of the Body in Indian Residential Schools,” Active History http://activehistory.ca/papers/truth-reconciliation-and-the-politics-of-the-body-in-indian-residential-school-history/

Coaches can take action for truth and reconciliation by completing the Aboriginal Coaching Module and the Sport for Life e-learning course on Indigenous Sport and Physical Activity Participation