Statement regarding the discovery of unmarked graves

The recent discoveries of several hundred unmarked graves on the grounds of former Indian Residential Schools is a sombre reminder of a dark chapter in Canada’s history. The NYJN membership acknowledges the historic and continuing harm caused to Canada’s First Nations, Metis and Inuit through historic and continuing discriminatory policies and practices, including those of the youth justice system.

The NYJN membership wishes to take the time to truly listen to the stories of Canada’s Indigenous Peoples, walk beside them in seeking true reconciliation, and to benefit from their wisdom.

We encourage NYJN members and all Canadians to read the report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, or at least the Introduction, and to familiarize themselves with the 94 Calls to Action. The reports can be found on the TRC website at Reports – NCTR.

We also encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples – UNDRIP_E_web.pdf.