National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Press Release

September 25, 2024

The Department of Education recognizes the enormous impact that the residential school system continues to have in Nunavut. On Monday, September 30, Nunavummiut are invited to wear orange to promote reconciliation, healing and to say loudly: Every Child Matters.

The Department of Education is developing a made-in-Nunavut curriculum that will ensure students can learn about issues important to them. It is crucial that any curriculum used in Nunavut schools is grounded in Inuit language and culture and reflects the lived experience of Inuit. The new social studies curriculum for all grade levels provides an opportunity to learn about those parts of Inuit history that have previously not been taught in schools, such as the history of residential schools, as well as other topics including the dog slaughter and forced relocations.

These may be difficult topics to talk about, and it is important for everyone to learn from the events of the past. If you need support or someone to talk to, please call the Hope for Wellness Helpline 1-855-242-3310 or chat online at hopeforwellness.ca.

The Department of Education funds the hiring of Elders and local experts in schools, celebrates Inuit language programs and locally developed courses.  We are working relentlessly with our stakeholders, including district education authorities and the Coalition of Nunavut District Education Authorities to have resilient schools based in Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit.

The Department of Education encourages you to learn about the residential school system. It is through this path that reconciliation and healing can happen.

Contact

Matthew Illaszewicz
Director, Stakeholder Engagement
Department of Education
867-975-5649
info.edu@gov.nu.ca

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