The Indigenous Peoples of this land continue to display strength and resiliency in the face of adversity. It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the pain and harm that Indigenous Peoples have suffered due to assimilation practices, including at Residential Schools.
Led by Archbishop Michael Miller, we are committed to the work of reconciliation and healing of suffering throughout this region. The local Church is engaged in relationship building with multiple Indigenous communities and some fruitful outcomes have already been realized.
The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund committee are reviewing applications for projects focused on healing, education and culture. First Nations elders and other local Indigenous Catholics, including Metis, are working with Archdiocesan staff to review grant applications.
The Archdiocese of Vancouver has pledged $2.5 million over five years which is part of the $30 million pledged by Canada’s Bishops.
We recognize and acknowledge with gratitude the Indigenous Peoples of this land, who have a rich and diverse cultural heritage. We acknowledge that the land on which we work, play, and worship are the shared traditional territory of the Coast Salish Peoples.