Mythbusting for Truth and Reconciliation

The road to Reconciliation is continuous—and truth is imperative on the journey. These UM professors and education experts from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) dispel some long-held myths around Indigenous Peoples and cultures.

Myth 1: All residential school Survivors had the same experience

Residential schools operated for more than 150 years. While many Survivors share common themes of being separated from family, language, and culture, each experience was also shaped by the child’s community, the school itself, and when and where they attended.

Kaila Johnston, Director of Education, Outreach and Public Programming, National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, explains why assuming all experiences were the same risks overlooking the unique histories and healing journeys of Survivors.

The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR)

The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) is a place of learning and dialogue where the truths of Residential School Survivors, families and communities are honoured and kept safe for future generations. Guided by five key Calls to Action, the NCTR works with Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners to educate the public about the residential school system and support ongoing efforts towards truth, reconciliation, and healing.

Foreground: sacred fire burns in front of NCTR building in background, winter.

Sacred fire burns in front of the NCTR building.

Myth 2: Indigenous medicines are not real medicine

Dr. Marcia Anderson, Vice-Dean Indigenous health, social justice and anti-racism at UM's Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, dispels the myth that Indigenous medicines and ways of knowing are not real medicine. Anderson speaks not only to their validity and influence in modern medicine, but the role they can play in the future of medicine.

Myth 3: Residential Schools were well-intentioned

Sean Carelton, Associate Professor in the Department of History and Department of Indigenous Studies, addresses the critical issue of residential school denialism, a form of misinformation that distorts the facts about the residential school system. Carleton explains how twisting the truth undermines public confidence in efforts toward truth and Reconciliation.

Myth 4: Indigenous Peoples get everything for free

Niigaan Sinclair, Professor in the Department of Indigenous Studies, columnist, and sought-after voice on education, politics and reconciliation debunks the widespread myth that Indigenous Peoples receive everything for free, including education, health, and housing. He uncovers the falsehoods to explain how treaties, meant to be mutually advantageous, have left Indigenous communities struggling for the same rights and privileges that Canadians often take for granted.

Seeking support?

The Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) offers support such as meetings with the ISC Elders or Knowledge Keeper in residence and student counselling services that can be accessed by contacting ISC directly at 204-474-8850 or by email at isc@umanitoba.ca.

The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour crisis support to former Indian Residential School students and their families toll-free at 1-866-925-4419.

First Nations, Inuit and Métis seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line toll-free at 1-855-242-3310 or by online chat at hopeforwellness.ca.

Mythbusting for Truth and Reconciliation

Myth 1: All residential school Survivors had the same experience

Myth 2: Indigenous medicines are not real medicine

Myth 3: Residential Schools were well-intentioned

Myth 4: Indigenous Peoples get everything for free

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