Active learning ideas
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was a landmark process in Canadian history, aimed at uncovering the truth about the residential school system and laying the groundwork for a new relationship. This topic focuses on the TRC's mandate, its findings of 'cultural genocide,' and the 94 Calls to Action. Students will learn that reconciliation is not just a feel-good concept but a rigorous process that requires concrete changes in law, education, and social services. This aligns with Ontario's NAC1O expectations regarding the future of Indigenous-settler relations.
Activity 01
In small groups, students choose one of the 94 Calls to Action (e.g., Education, Health, or Justice). They research what progress has been made by the government or relevant organizations and create a 'report card' to present to the class.
What was the purpose of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission?
Activity 02
Students read the TRC's definition of reconciliation. They individually write down what they think is the biggest barrier to reconciliation today, then pair up to discuss how that barrier could be overcome through one of the Calls to Action.
Why is truth a necessary precursor to reconciliation?
Activity 03
Set up stations with different types of 'truth' from the TRC: survivor quotes, statistical data, historical documents, and the 10 Principles of Reconciliation. Students rotate to collect evidence of why the commission concluded that cultural genocide occurred.
How can the Calls to Action be implemented in daily life?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Reconciliation is just about saying 'sorry.'
Reconciliation requires systemic change and the implementation of the 94 Calls to Action. A collaborative investigation into the progress of these calls helps students see that reconciliation is an active, ongoing, and often difficult process of policy change.
The TRC was only for Indigenous people.
The TRC was for all Canadians, as the history of residential schools is a Canadian history. Station rotations that include the '10 Principles of Reconciliation' help students understand that every person in Canada has a role in this process.
Methods used in this brief