In light of September 30 being marked as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we recognize that Indigenous students at Niagara College, as well as their families and communities, may be negatively impacted by the residential school system in Canada.
Residential schools were run by churches and the Federal Government for over 160 years with a policy and mandate rooted in colonialism and racism against Indigenous peoples. While attending the schools, Indigenous children experienced forced assimilation and multiple forms of abuse, devastating Indigenous families and communities across Turtle Island (North America). While the last residential school closed in 1996, residential school survivors, their descendants, and their communities, continue to feel the mental health impacts of intergenerational trauma and cultural loss.
Indigenous students: you are strong and resilient. It’s okay though, to ask for help when you need support. If you ever need to talk to someone, we have a team of counsellors – including an Indigenous Counsellor – available to support you.
To meet with a counsellor, please book an appointment by contacting Health, Wellness & Accessibility Services: www.niagaracollege.ca/hwas/appointment/
Additional resources for Indigenous students (available 24/7)
First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line
Phone: 1-855-242-3310
Chat: hopeforwellness.ca
Indian Residential School Survivors and Family Crisis Line
Phone: 1-866-925-4419
Talk4Healing
Phone/Text: 1-855-544-HEAL (4325)
Chat: talk4healing.com
