OTTAWA—Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcomed His Holiness Pope Francis’ announcement to visit Canada from July 24 to 29, 2022.
In his news release Trudeau said, “I welcome the news of His Holiness Pope Francis’ visit to Canada this summer to formally deliver the Roman Catholic Church’s apology for its role in operating residential schools that caused lasting pain and suffering to Indigenous Peoples in this country. His Holiness’ upcoming visit would not be possible without the bravery and determination of the Survivors, Indigenous leaders, and youth who shared their stories.”
The Prime Minister continued by speaking about the apology delivered by His Holiness in Rome last month. “While His Holiness delivered an apology in Rome last month, a formal in-person apology in Canada from the Roman Catholic Church to Survivors and their families would respond to Call to Action #58 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. This would be an important – and necessary – step for the Roman Catholic Church to continue engaging in dialogue with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis in order to advance meaningful reconciliation for Indigenous Peoples in our country. For far too long, this has been a burden carried by Indigenous Peoples alone. I encourage all Canadians to watch this historic moment and reflect on the impacts of colonialism.”
The news release ended with Trudeau sharing his sentiments about the Government of Canada continued commitment to support Survivors and their communities in their journey to healing.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed support of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis by what he described as the government, investing in their continued efforts to identify and recover those who never came home. “Recognizing that this work can trigger painful memories, the government will also continue to invest in culturally appropriate mental health and wellness supports so that individuals, families, and communities can grieve and heal.”
Trudeau spoke too of the mental health support programs available to residential school Survivors, their families, and communities during the Pope’s visit to Canada; that include national helplines such as the National Indian Residential School Crisis Line and crisis referral service by phone at 1-866-925-4419.