Marking National Indigenous Peoples Day

We provide support and services on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of Indigenous people across British Columbia. Our offices are located on the traditional territories of the Squamish, Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations.

We make this statement as an act of reconciliation and a response to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

Canada’s historical relationship with the first inhabitants of the land has been shaped by its imperial and colonial history. On June 21, 2019 we mark National Indigenous Peoples Day. We recognize the effects of colonization on Indigenous peoples, specifically, the legacy of Residential Schools, forced relocations and adoptions, and the denial of identity, culture and language.

Suicide rates amongst Indigenous communities are disproportionality high:

• Suicide and self-inflicted injuries are the leading causes of death for Indigenous youth and adults up to 44 years of age (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2016).
• The suicide rate for Indigenous male youth (age 15-24) is 126 per 100,000 compared to 24 per 100,000 for non-Indigenous male youth.
• For Indigenous females, the suicide rate is 35 per 100,000 compared to 5 per 100,000 for non-Indigenous females (Health Canada, 2010).
• Suicide rates for Inuit youth are among the highest in the world, at 11 times the national average.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, call 1-800-784-2433 (1-800-SUICIDE). Other ways to reach out:

• Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789
• Vancouver Coastal Regional Distress Line: 604-872-3311
• Sunshine Coast/Sea to Sky: 1-866-661-3311
• Seniors Distress Line: 604-872-1234
• Online Chat Service for Youth: www.YouthInBC.com (Noon to 1am)
• Online Chat Service for Adults: www.CrisisCentreChat.ca (Noon to 1am)

Many people want to know what they can do to further reconciliation. Here are some practical ways to answer the call.

Take Action

• 7 Free Ways to Make a Difference
• 150 Acts of Reconciliation for the Last 150 Days of Canada’s 150
• Attend a Local Event

Acknowledge Territory

• Guide to Acknowledging First Peoples & Traditional Territory
• Native-Land.ca

Get Educated

• CBC 108 Indigenous Writers to Read
• CBC Unreserved
• CBC: Namwayut: we are all one. Truth and reconciliation in Canada
• The Indian Act Said What?
• Indigenous Issues 101
• United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peopels