Catholic Teachers Honour National Indigenous History Month Through Reflection and Action
“National Indigenous History Month is a time of reflection, responsibility, and renewed commitment to truth, justice, and ensuring Indigenous voices and experiences are honoured in our schools throughout the year.
Each June, we are invited to recognize the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples, while also confronting the painful truths of colonialism, residential schools, and the systemic injustices that continue to affect Indigenous communities today.
As Catholic teachers, we have both a professional and moral responsibility to ensure Indigenous communities are represented authentically and respectfully in our classrooms. This responsibility cannot be limited to one month of recognition. It must be part of a year-round commitment to truth, equity, healing, and justice.
We must also acknowledge the specific role of the Catholic Church in the residential school system and the lasting harm caused to Indigenous children, families, and communities. While some steps have been taken by the Vatican towards reconciliation, including the recent repatriation of 62 Indigenous artifacts, true reconciliation goes beyond words and symbolic gestures. It demands sustained investment, courageous conversations, and concrete action in our school communities, education curriculum, and institutions.
Catholic teachers will continue our advocacy through all levels of government to ensure sustained funding for healthcare, education, and other vital programs that support Indigenous communities. We call on the federal government to take immediate and transparent steps to fulfill the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, which urge governments and institutions to advance reconciliation across all sectors of society. This includes supporting the revitalization of Indigenous knowledge systems, promoting cultural understanding, and fostering respectful and accountable relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
As an Association rooted in education, OECTA remains especially committed to advancing the Calls to Action by improving Indigenous student outcomes, supporting culturally responsive learning, increasing Indigenous representation in education, and ensuring all learners engage with accurate and respectful Indigenous histories, perspectives, and knowledge. This must also include meaningful progress on the National Action Plan to address violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people. In Ontario, it means restoring and strengthening education funding, resources, and supports that enable teachers to teach Indigenous history, culture, and perspectives with the depth, care, and respect they deserve.
Catholic teachers remain committed to creating inclusive, respectful, and culturally responsive learning environments where Indigenous students are supported, Indigenous knowledge is honoured, and all students are invited to engage honestly with Canada’s past and present.”
— René Jansen in de Wal
President, Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association