On September 30, we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. We honour the children who never returned home from residential schools, the Survivors, their families and the generations who continue to be affected by the residential school system.
For those of us working within Ontario’s child welfare system, this day also calls for an honest examination of our sector’s history. Assimilation policies separated First Nations, Inuit and Métis children and youth from their families, communities, cultures and identities, and their effects continue to be felt today.
OACAS recognizes and supports the inherent right of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples to care for their children and families and to make decisions about their own child and family well-being systems. Reconciliation requires us to respect Indigenous jurisdiction and self-determination and to remain accountable for meaningful and lasting change.
We also recognize the leadership of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and Indigenous child and family well-being agencies, including our member agencies, that carry out this work every day. Their leadership is essential to ensuring children and youth remain connected to their families, communities, cultures and identities.
Reconciliation requires more than acknowledgement on a single day. It calls on all of us to listen to Indigenous voices, confront difficult truths and consider how our work and actions can contribute to reconciliation throughout the year.
Every child matters.
Solomon Owoo
Chief Executive Officer
Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies
