National Day for Truth & Reconciliation

September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region recognizes the tragic history and ongoing legacy of residential schools and remembers and honours the survivors, their families, and communities. ⁠

We invite our volunteers, supporters, and all Canadians to observe this day by participating in activities and education related to Truth and Reconciliation, including the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action.

For additional learning resources please visit:

• Truth and Reconciliation: Commission of Canada Reports
• Truth and Reconciliation Commission: Calls to Action
• Indigenous Foundations Arts at UBC
• Legacy of Hope Foundation
• Assembly of First Nations: It’s Our Time Toolkit
• Ally Bill of Responsibilities
• Settlers Take Action
• Whose Land
• A Guide to Taking Your Family to a Powwow for the First Time
• First Nation Protocol on Traditional Territory by Indigenous Corporate Training Inc.

For local organizations please visit:

• Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre – Provides a Community Cultural Awareness Training
• Niijkiwendidaa Anishnabekwewag Services Circle – Provides counselling & Healing services for Indigenous women & their families. Also provides community-based training and workshops related to Reconciliation and understanding Indigenous issues and perspectives.
• Community Race Relations Committee – Provides training relating to anti-racism, share resources, and have insightful conversations on their social platforms.
• OPIRG Peterborough – Provides information about Land Acknowledgements, Treaties, and tons of resources for further learning.

To donate to survivors of Residential Schools and organizations working to further Reconciliation please visit:

• Canadian Roots Exchange
• First Nations Child and Family Caring Society
• Indian Residential Schools Survivors Society
• Legacy of Hope Foundation
• Orange Shirt Society
• Reconciliation Canada
• True North Aid

For support:

• IRSSS has a 24-hour crisis line for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of their residential school experience: 1-866-925-4419
• First Nations & Indian Hope for Wellness Help Line 1-855-242-3310
• Native Youth Hotline 1-877-209-1266

Land Acknowledgement

Habitat for Humanity is an organization that builds homes across Canada on traditional lands. We have an important responsibility to acknowledge the grounds on which we are privileged to gather in pursuit of Habitat’s mission of bringing communities together to help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership.  

Today we are honored to be located in Nogojiwanong, meaning ‘the place at the foot of the rapids’ known to some as Peterborough, and situated on the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig Nichnaabeg and the land associated with the Williams Treaty of 1923 and Rice Lake Treaty 20 of 1818. 

We respectfully acknowledge that the Williams Treaties First Nations are the stewards and caretakers of these lands and waters, and that they continue to maintain this responsibility to ensure their health and integrity for generations to come.  

May we collectively work together to ensure everyone has a safe and stable place to call home across Turtle Island. 

Learn about the Seven Grandfather Teachings here.