YWCA Canada has formally apologized to Indigenous people for its historical involvement in the operation of residential schools and Indian hospitals.
“As part of our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, YWCA Canada offers a sincere and unreserved apology to the Indigenous communities, families, and individuals who were harmed by YWCA Canada’s involvement in these institutions,” the apology states.
“We deeply regret the suffering and trauma that were inflicted because of our organization’s actions and acknowledge the enduring pain that continues to affect survivors and their descendants. We are profoundly sorry for the role YWCA Canada played in perpetuating these injustices.”
In issuing the apology on Wednesday, YWCA Canada published a summary report of initial research on its role in Canada’s residential school and Indian hospital systems.
The report states the organization had numerous ties to those institutions, primarily through delivering social and recreational activities as well as settlement and job counselling services for Indigenous women.
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“We are publishing this report as one step towards acknowledging the harms done, fulfilling our commitment to truth-telling and advancing our commitment to reconciliation,” stated Denise Christopherson, YWCA Canada’s board chair.
“YWCA Canada is committed to supporting learning and change as we work towards a future built on transparency, respect and justice.”
‘We vow to do better’
In its own press release, YWCA NWT said it had reached out to various Indigenous leaders and communities across the territory to share the report.
The organization said it has committed to further engagement, research and creating a community-informed plan for reconciliation and redress.
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“Part of our commitment to advancing the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is to better understand, acknowledge and address our organization’s historical involvement in colonial practices,” YWCA NWT executive director Hawa Dumbuya-Sesay stated.
“While we cannot change this legacy, our organization is deeply sorry for the YWCA’s actions and for the truths that will emerge as we continue to learn about our past. We vow to do better.”
YWCA Canada encouraged anyone who is Indigenous and has been negatively affected by its work to contact it for support.
YWCA NWT said affected people in the territory who would like to speak to someone local can reach in-house Elder Darlene Powder at 867-445-6740, including those who feel they would benefit from taking part in a sharing circle.
Other available resources include:
- 24-hour Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
- Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310 or chat online
- Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program (territories): 1-800-464-8106
