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A statement from the University of Lethbridge in response to the address from Pope Francis
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Indigenous Peoples across Canada received a long-awaited apology from the head of the Catholic Church Monday as Pope Francis addressed what he termed the “catastrophic” effects of residential-school policies.
This apology, issued here in Alberta, is not only a step forward, but a necessary part of the journey for truth, reconciliation and healing. For many others it will fall far short of their expectations and cannot erase the trans-generational effects of the residential school system. But it is an acknowledgement of the truth of the many precious loved ones who did not make it home. Our commitment as an institution is to do the hard work to be part of the solution for making tangible, meaningful change now and for future generations.
It is incumbent upon us all to take action both personally and institutionally to embed the fundamentals of truth and reconciliation into our daily lives, policies and systems to create the kind of Canada for which we can be proud — one of acceptance and diversity that is free of racial inequity and offers hope and opportunity to all.
This apology marks a significant step along this long journey to true reconciliation but is only one part of the journey that is ahead for us at the University of Lethbridge to achieve a safe, inclusive and equitable campus.
If you are a former residential school survivor in distress, or have been affected by the residential school system and need help, you can contact the 24-hour Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419.
Contact:
President's Office | president@uleth.ca