National charity CEO reminds that efforts for reconciliation can happen year-round

As Canadians commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a national charity reminds us that there are things that can be done year-round.

Sarah Midanik, the CEO and president of the Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack Fund, says as Canadians reflect on the impacts of residential schools, she hopes that leads them to what she calls “reconciliation.”

The goal of the Downie Wenjack Fund is to improve the lives of Indigenous people, by building awareness, education, and connections between all peoples in Canada.

Midanik says that includes any meaningful action that moves reconciliation forward.

“Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commitments Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, you know, learn about the United Nations declaration, action on the rights of Indigenous peoples, and seek out and support indigenous voices, artists, authors, attend Indigenous events, support Indigenous artists,” said Midanik. “Take the time to lean in, learn, listen, and figure out what you can do to drive reconciliation forward.”

Midanik says we all have a role to play on the path towards reconciliation, and it’s never too late to get started on that journey.

READ MORE: Hamilton, Halton, Niagara mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation