Statement in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report

 
The release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s report is a historic moment for Canada. This is an important time for all Canadians to reflect, listen and learn from the intergenerational survivors of Canada’s Residential School System.
 
I want to thank The Honourable Justice Murray Sinclair and the entire Truth and Reconciliation Commission for your important work. I especially want to thank the Survivors of Canada’s Residential School System for having the courage to share your experiences and to shed light on the atrocities committed at residential schools.
 
This is one of the darkest chapters in our country’s history. It is heartbreaking to read about the abuses endured by thousands of innocent children torn from their families, communities, language and culture.
 
The Commission presents an opportunity for reconciliation. We can atone for this history of cultural genocide by forging new relationships built on mutual respect, dignity, trust and equality. We need more than apologies. We need meaningful action and a full partnership with our First Nations, Métis and Inuit brothers and sisters.
 
The Commission has recommended many ways to begin the process of reconciliation—steps we can take to improve child welfare, education, healthcare, cultural and language traditions, and many more.
 
We have a moral obligation to act. We cannot stand idle.