National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: A Time to Listen, Learn, and Reflect

Each year on September 30, Canadians observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools, their families, and their communities. It is also an opportunity for all of us to reflect, learn, and consider how we can contribute to a more inclusive and respectful future. 

At Westcoast Family Centres, we recognize that Truth and Reconciliation is not a single day of reflection. It is an ongoing journey of learning, listening, and taking meaningful action. As an organization serving children, youth, and families throughout our communities, we are committed to continually strengthening our understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, and experiences, while ensuring our services remain welcoming, culturally responsive, and inclusive. 

We are privileged to offer services on the unceded territories of the Kwikwetlem, Katzie, Kwantlen, Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, and we acknowledge the enduring connection Indigenous Peoples have to these lands. Through our Indigenous Allyship work, we strive to build respectful relationships and create opportunities for learning that support both staff and the families we serve.  

Our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation is also reflected in Westcoast Family Centres’ 2026-2030 Strategic Plan. One of our key priorities is to strengthen our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation by advancing culturally responsive, inclusive, and meaningful practices for Indigenous families and staff. This includes: 

• Learning from Indigenous Elders and individuals with lived experience to help guide our ongoing journey. 

• Supporting internal leadership and staff to build capacity for meaningful awareness, learning, and reflection. 

• Ensuring accountability by continually seeking new ways to learn and apply that knowledge in our work. 

These commitments build on existing initiatives across our organization, including staff learning opportunities, Indigenous Learning and Sharing Circles, Truth and Reconciliation discussions, culturally inclusive spaces, and ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities. 

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation reminds us that meaningful change begins with listening, learning, and reflection. Whether it is attending a local event, learning about the history and impacts of residential schools, reading Indigenous authors, supporting Indigenous artists and businesses, or taking time to reflect on the experiences of Indigenous Peoples in Canada, every step toward greater understanding matters. 

As we mark this day, we encourage our staff, partners, families, and community members to take time to learn and reflect. Together, we can continue building relationships rooted in respect, understanding, and a commitment to doing better for future generations. 

To learn more about Westcoast Family Centres’ Indigenous Allyship commitments and initiatives, please visit our Indigenous Allyship page: Indigenous Allyship | Westcoast Family Centres – Westcoast Family Centres