10/01/2026
Yesterday, Métis National Council President Victoria Pruden gathered in remembrance, reflection, and solidarity on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. 🧡
In the morning, she joined Survivors, Elders, families, and federal and Indigenous leaders for the raising of the Survivors' Flag on Parliament Hill. The flag was raised as a symbol to honour the thousands of children who were sent to Residential Schools, the children who never returned home, and the families whose lives were forever impacted. This event was hosted by the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, the Honourable Rebecca Alty, Stephanie Scott, Executive Director of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, and Elder Claudette Commanda.
At noon, President Pruden attended the "Remembering the Children" commemorative gathering, where she placed a ceremonial offering of Métis moccasins and a sash as a symbolic tribute to the lives lost and the futures stolen.
To close the day, President Pruden met with Joyce Napier, Ambassador of Canada to the Holy See, at the Museum of History to view the Métis belongings that were returned from the Vatican, a meaningful moment in the ongoing journey of truth, healing, and cultural reclamation.
The MNC honours the resilience and strength of Survivors and understands that this day can resurface painful memories for many in our communities. We are extremely saddened to see a disturbing rise in Residential School denialism that seeks to minimize, distort, or even deny this history and the experience of Survivors. We all have a role to play in challenging denialism when we encounter it and to help Survivors bring forward their truths so that they are never erased or forgotten. Please take time to care for yourselves, be gentle with one another, and lean on family, friends, and community.
📞 The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line offers 24/7 support for Survivors and their families at 1-866-925-4419.
