The Government of Canada, in collaboration with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR), launched a public call for interest to invite Survivors and intergenerational Survivors to participate in the next phase of the Indian Residential Schools National Monument (First Nations, Métis and Inuit). The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Call to Action #81 calls “upon the federal government, in collaboration with Survivors and their organizations, and other parties to the Settlement Agreement, to commission and install a publicly accessible, highly visible, Residential Schools National Monument in the City of Ottawa to honour Survivors and all the children who were lost to their families and communities.” The memorial will serve as both a contemplative space and a sacred gathering place on traditional and unceded Algonquin Anishinabeg Territory on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

At the end April 2022, a Survivor-led Steering Committee was established to oversee the monument project through to its completion, ensuring the project remains grounded in Indigenous values. During the Steering Committee’s initial term, Members selected the site and defined the vision and objectives for the Monument. The current mandate of the members of the committee is coming to an end. Canadian Heritage, in consultation with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, is launching a call for interest to recruit new members for the Steering Committee. This new membership will be responsible for overseeing the next phases of the Monument project.

Who can join

The Steering Committee will reflect the voices and experiences of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples from across the country. Survivors and intergenerational Survivors are encouraged to come forward.

To take part, you should:

  • Have attended a residential school, or have a parent who did
  • Identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit
  • Be open to serving a two-year term
  • Be comfortable joining meetings online (support can be provided)
  • Be available to travel to Ottawa up to twice a year – travel accommodations for those needing assistance will be considered on a case-by-case basis

Members will be compensated for their time and contributions. Travel and related expenses will be covered by the Department of Canadian Heritage.

For further information or to submit an expression of interest, click here.