Statement from CEO Ceri Harnden on the First National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

In June of 2021, the federal government announced that September 30, 2021 would become Canada’s inaugural National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, honouring the lost children and survivors of the residential school system, their families and communities, and the legacy of multi-generational trauma that continues to painfully impact Indigenous families and communities. With deep humility, we acknowledge, and commit to continuing to learn and reflect on, this dark part of our Canadian history, including the role of the child and youth mental health sector, and EveryMind, in the perpetuation of systemic racism.

Today, EveryMind’s Indigenous Knowledge Committee will once again offer all staff the opportunity to come together to create meaningful discussion about the tragic effects of the residential school system on Indigenous communities. EveryMind very much appreciates its partnership with the The Indigenous Network as we educate ourselves on Canadian history from an Indigenous perspective and take action that affirms our commitment to rethinking, rehauling and reinventing our approach to services. We come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come such that Every Child Matters.

Thank you,
Ceri Harnden, CEO