Survivors' Secretariat

Meet Ronni General, a Psychology Co-Op student at Brock University, entering her fourth year this fall. Ronni chose this field because of her insights while growing up on the reserve, realizing that there are a lot of contributing factors to Intergenerational Trauma and human behaviors. Ronni desires to help and to be a support person for those who need it. After graduation, Ronni plans to travel and pursue a master's degree in forensic psychology.

Working with Survivors is of importance to Ronni as many of her family members attended the Mohawk Institute. This is Ronni’s first year with the Youth Supporting Survivors’ Student program, she is a part of the Ground Search (GPR) team, collecting data to find potential unmarked graves.

Ronni believes in promoting healing and fostering better relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. She thinks it's essential to keep an open mind and strive to understand each other from their perspective.

She believes that agreement isn't always necessary, but respecting differing opinions is key. Finding the right resources and actively seeking the proper information is a part of bridging the gap, as educating oneself is nobody else’s responsibility but thier own.

To read more about the 2024 Youth Supporting Survivors Program, please visit:
https://survivorssecretariat.ca/a-journey-of-truth-justice-and-healing-the-youth-supporting-survivors-program-2024/

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Survivors' Secretariat invites Survivors, inter-generational Surivivors, nations from across Canada and allies to gather on Parliament Hill tomorrow (Monday, July 22 from 1-3 PM) to show your support for investigations into missing children and unmarked burials.

If you are unable to attend you can also show your support by writing to your local MP, download a copy of a customizable letter at https://survivorssecretariat.ca/pressreleases/survivors-secretariat-outraged-over-drastic-funding-cap-for-investigations-intoindian-residential-school-burials/

Or like and share this post to help raise awareness and show Survivors that we still care!

The Survivors’ Secretariat expresses outrage over the severe funding cap for investigations into missing children and unmarked burials linked to Indian Residential Schools. The recent government cuts threaten to silence these truths and deny justice for Survivors, their families, and our communities. We demand accountability and action!

Our voices will unite as we are prepare to journey to Ottawa on Monday, July 22nd, 2024. This is an open call to all Inter-generational Survivors, community members, and everyone who wishes to stand in solidarity with Survivors.

Monday's gathering is more than just a support rally; it's a testament to our resilience and hope for the future. Together, we can amplify our voices to ensure that Survivors are heard and respected.

Join us to Stand In Solidarity with Survivors!

The bus to Ottawa will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

Everyone is welcome to join; in the event that the bus fills up, you are welcome to join providing your own transportation.

Meetup Time:

🕕 Time: Monday, July 22nd, 2024 at 5:30am
📍 Location: 1721Chiefswood Road, the plaza in Ohsweken

The Bus will be leaving promptly at 6am, the Bus should return around 9:30 pm.

Bagged lunches will be provided for attendees.

📍 The Meet-up point in Ottawa will be at the Centennial Flame Monument on Parliament Hill around 1pm for a public response at 2pm.

Please like, Comment and Share this post to raise awareness.

Survivors’ Secretariat Outraged Over Drastic Funding Cap for Investigations into Missing Children and Unmarked Burials Associated with Indian Residential School.
Read more by clicking the link below and don't forget to download a copy of of our editable letter to MP's to express your support for funding to investigate what happened to the children at Indian Residential Schools in Canada.

https://survivorssecretariat.ca/pressreleases/survivors-secretariat-outraged-over-drastic-funding-cap-for-investigations-intoindian-residential-school-burials/

Yesterday marked the final day of the Together We Are Standing With Survivors Gathering in Thunder Bay. Indigenous youth and Indian Residential School Survivors came together at a listening table to share their perspectives and vision for the future with First Nations Leaders, Municipal, Provincial, government representatives.

Highlights from the discussions held include:

· Advocacy for increased funding or in-kind contributions

· Current challenges with addictions in Indigenous communities

· Importance of Language Immersion Programs and Land-based learning

· Mentorship and leadership opportunities for Indigenous youth

· Collaborative efforts on organizing inter-generational trauma initiatives to further support communities.

· A change in the current education systems to include teachings on First Nations history and the history of Indian Residential Schools.

· The acknowledgement and honouring of the treaty agreements that were made by our grandmothers and grandfathers.

· Calls for political advocacy on Indigenous issues

In the space of yesterday’s listening tables, voices resonated with emotion, urgency and hope. The day ended with a Youth, Survivor and Leadership Social and traditional round dance, echoing the strength and spirit of our ancestors.

When we come together and share similar experiences, things begin to change. Our voices grow stronger. We unite in purpose, aligning our hearts and minds. Our Future is in unity, standing together as one.

“Across our nations, we are a family” – Laura Arndt, Survivors’ Secretariat Lead

Nia:weh, Miigwetch to everyone who participated in the gathering throughout the week. Your presence and contributions have made this week a powerful and transformative experience.

This summer, the Survivors’ Secretariat will highlight the impacts of the Indian Act on Indigenous People throughout its history. By spotlighting this legislation and how it has shaped the Indigenous experience, we aim to foster a mutual understanding of our shared history.

To read more on the Indian Act, please visit: https://survivorssecretariat.ca/150-years-of-impact-the-indian-act/

The Survivors’ Secretariat is dedicated to uncovering, documenting, and sharing the truth about what happened to the children who were forced to attend Mohawk Institute Indian Residential School.

Sign up for our quarterly newsletter to stay updated on our progress https://rb.gy/okjoos or connect with us directly by emailing [email protected]

It's the final day of the Together We Are Gathering, and our Youth & Survivor Delegates will be presenting to visiting guests and leadership from the Thunder Bay region and across the wider province and Canada.

Youth & Survivors were placed in Home Groups throughout the Gathering with Youth & Survivors from Communities across Ontario to develop these presentations with a focus on intergenerational relationships, healing, and the future they want for their communities.

Tune in live to support them, starting at 9:00am:
https://secretariat.live/fohstream.

Survivors Secretariat - Feathers of Hope 2024 (Day 2)

If you missed our workshop session earlier today, we are welcoming back Sean Morriseau, Native Pool Boy at 6PM for a live-streamed Comedy Show!

Grab your friends and a snack and watch live at: https://secretariat.live/fohstream

As Day 2 of the Together We are Standing With Survivors Gathering commenced, we welcomed Survivors’ Secretariat youth leaders to share Survivors insights they heard during the Discussion Circles at the Third Annual Survivors of the Mohawk Institute Gathering, held this past June:

Ground Search Efforts: Survivors emphasized halting construction to respect burial sites on the grounds of the Mohawk Institute. There was also an emphasis on the importance of conducting ceremonies to honour and bring peace to the spirits of those buried.

Cultural Protocols and Respect: There was a strong focus on the diversity of healing approaches and the importance of engaging with other nations. Recognizing the variety of cultural protocols among different Indigenous nations was considered essential for fostering respectful collaboration and solidarity.

Honouring Children's Dignity: Survivors expressed the need to honour missing children from the Mohawk Institute with annual gatherings and social events addressing intergenerational trauma within Indigenous communities.

Changing Landscapes: Survivors noted significant transformations on the lands of the Mohawk Institute. Insights were shared into these evolving areas, including the repurposing of buildings.

Data Sovereignty: Survivors voiced the importance of releasing names to communities and families first and expressed the need for family or community members to have access to this data indefinitely.

The Survivors’ Secretariat extends gratitude to the youth participants for their dedicated involvement in this profound work of rebuilding and strengthening intergenerational bonds.

This afternoon, Sean Morriseau, Native Pool Boy, from Fort William First Nation, provided a workshop focusing on boosting confidence and empowering participants to speak effectively to audiences, while encouraging them to embrace their true selves.

“Confidence is a Superpower” - Sean Morriseau, Native Pool Boy

He emphasized the power of confidence and shared a traditional teaching about trees symbolizing personal growth. Practical exercises were provided to increase self-awareness and positive self-reflection. The workshop created a positive atmosphere of belonging, evident in the laughter and smiles of the engaged audience.

Tonight, we eagerly anticipate his comedy show, where humour and humility will undoubtedly take center stage once again. We will be streaming the comedy show live at 6pm.

What a great second day, we look forward to the final day of the gathering tomorrow!

Join us shortly for the Together We Stand With Survivors Gathering! Our special guest today is Sean Morriseau, the original Native Pool Boy, who will lead a live workshop at 1pm.

To watch Sean's workshop, click here:

Survivors Secretariat - Feathers of Hope 2024 (Day 2)

We're back! Join us Live for the Survivors' Secretariat Youth Leaders Presentation.

Tune in to watch the live stream as we unite to amplify voices, support survivors, and build a community of resilience.

Link:

Survivors Secretariat - Feathers of Hope 2024 (Day 2)

Greetings from the traditional lands of Fort William First Nation in Thunder Bay, Ontario! Day 1 of the Together We Are Standing With Survivors gathering has been truly inspiring.

This morning, youth engaged in the traditional raising of a teepee. This cultural teaching not only strengthens their identity but also equips them with essential skills for community gatherings and ceremonies.

This afternoon, Samantha McKenzie shared her insights with Survivors and Indigenous youth. Her inspiring words encouraged us to persevere and create change in our communities. Samantha shared her personal journey of earning her high school diploma, emphasizing the message that education is achievable at any age.

Representing her culture proudly, Samantha expressed gratitude to the Elders for their teachings. She showcased a powerful video highlighting youth empowerment and community impact. Samantha's commitment to community and role modelling was inspiring.

"Great minds can do great things. Dreams mean everything." - Sam McKenzie

Miigwetch Samantha, for sharing your passion with us today!

This evening, as the Sacred Fire was lit, Elders and youth gathered to share songs, stories, and reflections on the day’s conversations.

Special thanks to our partners Feathers of Hope, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, and Anishinabek Nation for their support in making this gathering possible.

Stay tuned to the Secretariat’s Facebook for daily recaps of this journey of connection and resilience. What an incredible first day—we look forward to Day 2!

To watch tomorrow’s livestream, please visit: https://secretariat.live/fohstream

Survivors' Secretariat is thrilled that the Together We Are Standing with Survivors Gathering has commenced. This gathering is an opportunity for Indigenous Youth and Indian Residential School Survivors to strengthen the bond between generations, share knowledge and shape a future rooted in resilience and healing.

This morning, we heard from keynote speaker Darrell Boissoneau, a former Chief of the Garden River First Nation. Darrell has been a dedicated advocate for cultural-based education and the preservation of Anishinaabe traditions. He has united communities and spearheaded initiatives such as the covenant between Algoma University College and Shingwauk Education Trust, paving the way for the development of a three-year degree program in Anishinaabe Studies.

Darrell passionately spoke about the importance of seeking mentorship to develop skills and gifts. He advised Indigenous youth to ask for advice, guidance and direction on our paths while respecting our elders. “Know who you are, know your history, the paths that your family and ancestors trailblazed for you.”

Reflecting on his involvement with many Indigenous social movements, Darrell shared how these experiences have shaped his sense of identity and belonging, driven by a commitment to justice and peace. “Don’t be scared to stand up. Don’t be scared to use your voice.”

Darrell reminded us of our sacred duty to care for Mother Earth, empathizing with our responsibility as caretakers of the land. "The creator has lowered us here onto Mother Earth for a reason. We are here to take care of Mother Earth, that is our responsibility. Because our mother has taken care of us.”

He concluded his address with a song of gratitude, reminding us to be thankful even in times of grief and hardship.

Nia:weh, Miigwetch, Darrell for your inspiring words and dedication to empowering Indigenous youth!

We're back! Join us today at 1pm for our livestream featuring Youth Speaker Samantha McKenzie. Sam brings her experience from Feather of Hope, an Indigenous youth-led organization empowering young Indigenous people to take a leading role in building safe, and healthy communities.

Join Live at 1pm: https://secretariat.live/fohstream

Join us for the Standing with Survivors Youth Gathering in Thunder Bay! Today, we're excited to hear from Darrell Boissoneau, who will share valuable insights on First Nations activism and leadership.

Tune in to watch the live stream as we unite to amplify voices, support survivors, and build a community of resilience.

Link: https://secretariat.live/fohstream

Survivors Secretariat - Feathers of Hope 2024 (Day 1)

Meet Jersey Squire, a third-year student studying Criminology at Western University. Jersey chose this program to help address the overrepresentation of incarcerated Indigenous peoples and to foster more Indigenous representation in the justice system. After graduating, Jersey plans to pursue a law degree at the University of Western, aiming for a career in law to further support Indigenous communities.

This is Jersey’s first year in the Youth Supporting Survivors program at the Secretariat, where she contributes to the ground search (GPR) team, gathering data to uncover potential unmarked graves.

Jersey’s ultimate hope is that the truths of Indian Residential School Survivors are preserved, heard, and respected by future generations.

To read more about the 2024 Youth Supporting Survivors Program, please visit:
https://survivorssecretariat.ca/a-journey-of-truth-justice-and-healing-the-youth-supporting-survivors-program-2024/

Over, 100 years ago, on July 14th, 1923, Gayogo̱hó꞉nǫʼ (Cayuga) Chief Deskaheh travelled to Geneva, Switzerland, to address the League of Nations.

His goal was to gain global acknowledgment of the Sovereignty of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and to bring attention to Canada’s extensive breach of treaty agreements, which included the unauthorized sale of land protected by treaties, international recognition of the sovereignty of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, and the dangerous situations faced by Indigenous women and children.

Deskaheh courageously said that the Canadian “Indian Office” was breaking the rights of Indigenous peoples and making unfair laws with the “Indian Act.” He also said that the British Crown didn't keep its promise to protect his people. Chief Deskaheh wanted his people to live under their own laws, on their own land, and following their own faith.

The chief's actions sparked a movement for Indigenous rights around the world, shedding light on the injustices of Indigenous sovereignty violations. Deskaheh is now a symbol for Indigenous rights at the United Nations (previously known as the League of Nations), established in 1945.

To read more, please visit: https://www.culturalsurvival.org/news/commemorating-100th-anniversary-deskahehs-campaign-league-nations

Photo Cred: CulturalSurvival.org

Today marks the anniversary of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement and the Nunavut Act, which led to the creation of Nunavut as a territory. This agreement is the largest Indigenous land claim settlement in Canadian History. The distinctive flag was declared on the same day it became a territory. On this significant day, let us celebrate the Inuit, and their unique culture while recommitting to safeguarding our traditions and sovereignty.

Happy Nunavut Day!

To read more on the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement, and Nunavut Act, please visit:
https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/canadas-water-challenges/nunavut-and-the-nunavut-land-claims-agreement-an-unresolved-relationship/

Check out some tips and common symptoms when it comes to managing a Crisis or Traumatic Event

If you or someone you know requires support, please reach out to the:

Crisis Hub at 226-446-9902
from 8am-11pm, Monday-Friday.

Or

The Six Nations Crisis Line at 1-866-445-2204 available 24/7.

Meet Chantel VanEvery, a graduate of the Social Service Worker program at Six Nations Polytechnic University. After graduating Chantel wanted to further her education in mental health and addictions to better understand working with individuals, families and communities who struggle with mental health and addictions resulting from inter-generational trauma.

Chantel is now enrolled in her first year at Mohawk College, studying Concurrent Disorders, while working towards obtaining an Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work and Indigenous studies.

This is Chantel’s second year with the Youth Supporting Survivors’ Student program, she is a part of the Ground Search (GPR) team, collecting data to find potential unmarked graves.

Chantel emphasizes the significance of youth maintaining a strong connection with Survivors and Elders, viewing it as essential for preserving our culture and resilience in unity.

To read more about the 2024 Youth Supporting Survivors Program, please visit:
https://survivorssecretariat.ca/a-journey-of-truth-justice-and-healing-the-youth-supporting-survivors-program-2024/

This summer, the Survivors’ Secretariat will highlight the impacts of the Indian Act on Indigenous People throughout its history. By spotlighting this legislation and how it has shaped the Indigenous experience, we aim to foster a mutual understanding of our shared history.

To read more on the Indian Act, please visit:
https://survivorssecretariat.ca/150-years-of-impact-the-indian-act/

In 1907, Chief Medical Officer of the Department of Indian Affairs, Peter Henderson Bryce said Indian Residential Schools were an ideal environment for TB transmission, going on to say, "Almost as if the prime conditions for the outbreak of epidemics had been deliberately created."

Tuberculosis death rates were far higher in Indian Residential Schools than among the children in the general population. Conditions at the Mohawk Institute such as overcrowding, stress, malnutrition, and poor ventilation contributed to the spread of TB.

Bryce recommended improvements to the school buildings and children's diets, as well as having TB nurses on staff, only to be ignored by the federal government. The children were often sent to Lady Willingdon Hospital and other sanatoriums in the area, many of which never returned home.

Canada Day, celebrated on July 1st, marks the anniversary of the Confederation of Canada in 1867. For many Indigenous peoples, Canada Day serves as a reminder of the impacts of colonization experienced by Indigenous communities for centuries; including the many laws or restrictions forced upon them such as Indian Residential Schools, the reserve system, and the Indian Act.

In 2015, the National Truth and Reconciliation commission’s (NCTR) published 94 Calls to Action. Today many of them remain incomplete. If progress towards genuine and lasting reconciliation is going to happen within our lifetimes, truths must be heard, and accepted universally, as there is still more work that needs to be done. Every Canadian and government body has a role to play, and by working together we can increase mutual understanding to create an equitable, and stronger country for all.

Standing in solidarity with Indigenous peoples requires ongoing commitment and action beyond Canada Day. Marking the day with meaningful gestures of support, like wearing orange, can be a powerful way to demonstrate solidarity and contribute to positive change.

To read more from the University of Manitoba article, please visit:
https://themanitoban.com/2024/01/zero-calls-to-action-were-completed-in-2023-report-finds/46550/

To read more on the NCTR’s Calls to Action, please visit: https://nctr.ca/records/reports/

Deputy Superintendent General of Indian Affairs, Duncan Campbell Scott, made attendance at Indian Residential School’s mandatory in 1920. This policy was also inconsistently applied to Métis and Inuit children.

To learn more on the timeline of Indian Residential Schools please visit:
https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/timeline/residential-schools