Canada’s third National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is on September 30, 2023.
Although reconciliation demands large-scale systemic change, I believe that individual behaviour is also an important contributor. Many of us may intend to support reconciliation, but we may fall short in actually taking action. From behavioural science, we know some tools that can help us overcome this intention-action gap. Here are a few things I’m thinking about this year:
- Set deadlines and then set reminders prior to those deadlines. Whether it’s signing up for the Indigenous Canada course and actually completing the lessons, learning the history of where you live, or another action, make a concrete plan for when and how you’ll move forward.
- Be vocal about what you’re doing. Social proof is powerful. If you tell others about what you’re learning, the events you’re attending, or the actions you’re taking, you may inspire others to follow suit.
- Choose something that resonates with you to help you get started. As Stephanie Papik suggested in one of her amazing podcast episodes, we all have different paths toward reconciliation.
- If you’re a music fan, explore Indigenous musical acts like Black Belt Eagle Scout, Miesha and the Spanks, and Snotty Nose Rez Kids, to name just a few.
- If you like to binge-watch TV, check out Indigenous-led shows like Reservation Dogs and Rutherford Falls.
- If you love to read fiction, read books by Indigenous authors like Cherie Dimaline, Katherena Vermette, and Angeline Boulley, who’ve all released fantastic new novels in 2023.
- If you’re a podcast fanatic, listen to Indigenous podcasts like Media Indigena or APTN News Brief. I also recommend Emily Salmon’s episode (#58) and Stephanie Papik’s episodes (#26 and #41) on Calling DIBS!
Here are some evergreen recommendations for actions you can take any time:
- Read “Honouring Truth and Reconciliation: A Guide to Observing September 30th” from Stephanie Papik and the folks at the Moose Hide Campaign.
- Visit the Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre, whether online or in person.
- Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
- Watch the short video below about Truth & Reconciliation.
- Develop your Indigenous Relations Behavioural Competencies.
- Take a course like Indigenous Canada.
Lastly, leading up to Orange Shirt Day, check out events in your area. Here’s what’s going on at UBC: https://irshdc.ubc.ca/orange-shirt-day/
Resources previously shared: