A Special Statement from the Métis Nation of Ontario on the Passing of Pope Francis

Press Release

April 21, 2025

Pope Francis was the first leader of the Catholic Church to have the courage to fully confront the truth of its role in the trauma inflicted on Indigenous children and families through the residential school system. His words during his 2022 visit to Canada, delivered on the lands of Métis, First Nation, and Inuit peoples, acknowledged the harm caused by the Church and marked a turning point in the long journey toward healing.

“Pope Francis did something no Pope before him had done, he named the truth,” said Mitch Case, Secretary of Education. “I was honoured to meet the Holy Father when our survivors journeyed to Rome, and be a witness when he delivered the Church’s apology and recognized the real pain that Métis, First Nations, and Inuit families continue to live with today. It reminded us that healing begins with truth.”

Pope Francis’ journey to Canada and his apology began with the courageous work over decades by survivors from across Canada to bring attention of the Government, the Church and Canadians to the painful legacy of the Residential School system, which the Pope himself called Genocide.

While his words did not undo the harm, they created space for many survivors and families to begin or continue their healing. The Pope’s recognition of the Church’s failings was a step forward in a long and difficult process.

As the world reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis, we encourage the Catholic Church, particularly the Catholic Bishops and clergy in Canada, to continue on the path he began: one grounded in truth, respect, and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.

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