In addition to a national apology, Canadian Catholic Bishops have announced a $30-million pledge to support healing and reconciliation initiatives for residential school survivors, their families, and their communities.
The Bishops of Canada have acknowledged that many Catholic religious communities and dioceses participated in Canada’s Indian Residential Schools, which led to the suppression of Indigenous languages, culture and spirituality, failing to respect the rich history, traditions and wisdom of Indigenous Peoples.
The group expressed profound remorse and apologized unequivocally.
The target of $30 million is over 5-years and will include initiatives in every region across Canada.
The commitment will be achieved at the local level, with parishes across Canada being encouraged to participate and amplify the effort.
Funding for projects will be determined locally, in consultation with First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples in each region.
