What Is Truth and Reconciliation? A Disability-Inclusive Overview
Every year on September 30th, Canadians observe Truth and Reconciliation Day to honour the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities. It’s a time to reflect, learn, and take action toward healing and justice.
But what does Truth and Reconciliation really mean? And how can we ensure that disability communities and caregivers are included in these efforts?
What Is Truth and Reconciliation Day?
Truth and Reconciliation Day, also known as Orange Shirt Day, was established in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC). The TRC was created to document the experiences of Indigenous children who were forced to attend residential schools — institutions designed to erase Indigenous cultures and identities.
In 2015, the TRC released 94 Calls to Action, urging governments, institutions, and all Canadians to take meaningful steps toward reconciliation. These actions span areas like education, health, justice, and culture. For example:
Call to Action #19 calls for measurable progress in closing health gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Call to Action #24 urges medical and nursing schools to include Indigenous health issues in their training.
Call to Action #22 highlights the importance of recognizing and integrating Indigenous healing practices.
Why Disability Inclusion Matters
Reconciliation must include everyone — including people with disabilities and caregivers. Indigenous people with disabilities often face multiple layers of discrimination, including barriers to healthcare, education, and community participation. Many residential school Survivors live with long-term physical and mental health impacts, and some require caregiving support.
Yet, disability is rarely mentioned in mainstream reconciliation conversations. That’s why it’s important to:
Recognize intersectionality: Indigenous identity, disability, gender, and caregiving roles often overlap.
Ensure accessibility: Reconciliation events, resources, and education must be accessible to all.
Amplify voices: Indigenous people with disabilities and caregivers deserve platforms to share their stories and lead change.
Moving Forward Together
Reconciliation is not a one-day event — it’s a lifelong commitment. By including disability perspectives, we strengthen our collective efforts and honour the full diversity of Indigenous experiences.
This September, The Ability Company invites you to reflect on how “Reconciliation Includes Us” — because inclusion is essential to healing.
Stay tuned for a special announcement on September 30th, when we’ll share our Reconciliation Includes Us – Commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. It’s our pledge to ensure disability communities and caregivers are meaningfully included in reconciliation efforts.
Learn More and Get Involved
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