UBC discussions focus on residential schools, recognition, reconciliation, responsibility

UBC's Okanagan campus is hosting a dialogue about truth and reconciliation for all students, staff and faculty today, in support of the final national Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) event in Vancouver on September 22.

The day features discussions on the 4 R's: residential schools, recognition, reconciliation and responsibilities.

The agenda is as follows:
9:45 a.m. -- Opening remarks and prayer
10 to 10:50 a.m. -- History of the Indian Residential School System
11 to 11:50 a.m. -- The settlement agreement
12 noon to 12:50 p.m. -- The apology and Truth and Reconciliation Commission
1 to 1:50 a.m. -- Settler responsibilities
2 to 3:30 p.m. -- What is the Truth and Reconciliation Commission? Survivor testimonial and intergenerational testimonial are included.

All activities take place in the Ballroom, (Room UNC 200) University Centre, 3272 University Way, UBC’s Okanagan campus, Kelowna. The event is open to the public.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s mandate is to learn the truth about what happened in residential schools and inform all Canadians. The Commission aims to guide and inspire First Nations, Inuit, Métis peoples and Canadians in a process of finding truth and healing leading toward reconciliation and renewed relationships based on mutual understanding and respect.

Reconciliation is viewed by the Commission as a continuing individual and collective process that requires participation from all those affected by the residential school experience. This includes First Nations, Inuit, and Métis former students, their families, communities, religious groups, former Indian Residential School employees, government, and the people of Canada. Details can be found at www.trc.ca

To find out more about Okanagan campus events related to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, visit: news.ok.ubc.ca/exchange/2013/09/03/road-to-reconciliation

News from © iNFOnews, 2013