For years Indigenous peoples in Canada have been telling us about the deadly cost of how Canada was created. And as more and more unmarked graves of Indigenous children are being uncovered, it is clear that there needs to be accountability from both the state and the Church. As Canadians, we demand accountability for our fellow indigenous people in Canada.

As immigrants, many of us are thankful for the opportunities that moving to Canada has brought us. These privileges are at the expense of Indigenous peoples that are experiencing ongoing colonization and harm.

Indigenous peoples still do not have access to clean water, are disproportionately represented in our carceral system, have lower life expectancies, experience medical racism, and their treaty rights are violated. Indigenous women and girls are five times more likely to experience violence than any other population.

The Iranian Canadian Congress echoes Indigenous calls for action and encourages you all to learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Committee at trc.ca.

As more unmarked graves of children are uncovered and we learn about the true horrors of the Residential School system, the ICC invites you to reflect, to have conversations with your family and friends, and to learn about Indigenous peoples’ and Canada’s history and present day situations. As newly arrived settlers we have a role to play in reconciliation and together we can work towards a more just Canada.