Honouring Indigenous Elders: Keepers of Knowledge for Truth and Reconciliation

As we approach National Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30th, we are invited to reflect deeply on the dark truths of Canada’s history and the ongoing journey toward healing and understanding. One of the most powerful ways to engage in this reflection is by listening to the voices of Indigenous Elders—keepers of knowledge, culture, and resilience.

Indigenous Elders carry generations of lived experience, cultural teachings, and spiritual insight. Their stories offer invaluable perspectives on the impacts of residential schools, the strength of Indigenous identity, and the importance of intergenerational healing.

As part of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, Alberta Routes developed a series of eight videos, titled Elders Speak, to support teaching newcomers to Canada about Turtle Island’s Indigenous history and cultures. We invite you to explore these videos where respected Indigenous Elders of Anishinaabe, Inuvialuit, Métis, Nehiyaw, and Siksika Peoples share their thoughts on the following topics:

• Identity
• Treaty
• Tobacco
• Body, Mind & Spirit
• Residential Schools
• Truth and Reconciliation
• Barriers
• With Respect 

Each video is accompanied with a sample lesson plan for English language learners, ranging from CLB 3-5. For a copy of these lesson plans, or to book the workshop Promoting Indigenous Awareness: The Elders Speak for your organization, please reach out to your Alberta Routes advisor.

Truth and Reconciliation is not a single day—it’s a lifelong commitment to learn and unlearn. By listening to Indigenous Elders and sharing their voices with Canada’s newcomers, we honour and respect their truths and take meaningful steps toward a more just and compassionate Canada.