Truth First, Then Reconciliation
September 30th is Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation—a statutory holiday marked in orange, but by no means a day for fireworks or celebration. Instead, it’s a time for quiet, humble reflection on the deep, often distressing truths of colonial violence, both historic and ongoing, and a chance to consider meaningful paths forward. This is a day to honour the voices and experiences of Mi’kmaq and all Indigenous peoples, to confront how colonization and its attendant systems—capitalism and patriarchy—have devastated communities across Turtle Island.
Pre-contact, many Indigenous societies—and some settler cultures—were deeply rooted in matriarchal values and structures. Colonization upended these norms, imposing hierarchies of profit and dominance, driving underground the strength and wisdom of women, Two Spirit, and gender-diverse people. The legacy is visible not only in policy and law but also in the tragic findings of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, which exposes the violence, neglect, and erasure perpetuated by both individuals and institutions.
Today, we are all influenced by the powerful forces of systemic racism, capitalism’s relentless grind, and the enduring shadow of patriarchy. Challenging these forces starts with the often gentle but persistent work of unlearning deeply rooted biases. Antidotes to racism include listening deeply, seeing the unseen, speaking the unspoken, nurturing empathy, building true relationships across difference, and standing up for justice in both word and action. Rest becomes a form of resistance* in a world that values constant productivity and profit over well-being. In the face of patriarchy, acts of self-love and affirmation are not just healing—they are truly radical*. To move beyond colonial worldviews, we must make a conscious choice to unlearn ingrained prejudices and relearn with openness, humility, and a commitment to reconciliation.
For Mi’kmaq and others, Netukulimk (NEH-doo-goo-limk) is a guiding principle—a way to nurture abundance through balanced relationships with land and community. Etuaptmumk* (eh-doo-OP-duh-mumk) or “Two-Eyed Seeing,” calls for integrating Indigenous and settler ways of knowing. Wherever you begin, use this day to consider the world from perspectives unlike your own.
Allyship and reconciliation require discomfort, honesty, and action. On September 30th, seek out Indigenous voices—read, listen, support—and take the challenge to learn, reflect, and change. Truth first, reconciliation then lives in what we do next, together.
The Invitation: Will you be a truth-teller? Will you embrace change for a healthier and more just future? If so, how will you remain accountable to yourself and community?
Do you have any recommendations for learning? I’ve put some of my references in the comments, hope you will share others!
To read the blog and find the references - see Erika’s LinkedIn post
