A shared vision held by those affected by Indian residential schools was to create a place of learning and dialogue where the truths of their experiences were honoured and kept safe for future generations. They wanted their families, communities and all of Canada to learn from these hard lessons so they would not be repeated. They wanted to share the wisdom of the Elders and Traditional Knowledge Keepers on how to create just and peaceful relationships amongst diverse peoples. They knew that Reconciliation is not only about the past; it is about the future that all Canadians will forge together. This vision is the legacy gift to all of Canada. The NCTR is dedicated to preserving the history of residential schools in Canada, making this history known and moving our country forward on the path of reconciliation.
NCTR will support research, education and community engagement projects related to the missing children of residential schools including burial site identification and commemoration, inter-community support and public education events.