The Indigenous peoples of Canada experienced the impacts of the loss of language, the loss of identity, and were subject to abuse and degradation, which reverberates through Indigenous communities to this day in the form of intergenerational trauma. A significant contributing factor to intergenerational trauma is residential schooling. In Atlantic Canada, the only residential school was the Shubenacadie Indian Residential School, which operated between 1930-1967. The impacts of residential schools are widespread and continue to this day… To prompt meaningful, lasting change and reconciliation within Nova Scotia, I ask you to consider partnering with us by contributing to the 2023 Reconciliation and Healing Collection, which starts on September 9, 2023.
The Archdiocese of Halifax-Yarmouth established the Reconciliation and Healing Fund in 2021 to help fund local projects, which are done in collaboration with local Mi’kmaq. The newly formed Mi’kmaq Pastoral Council is one way in which I have sought to build relationships with the Indigenous communities within our diocese. The Mi’kmaq Pastoral Council consists of Indigenous and non-Indigenous members who will help advise me on the pastoral needs of First Nations communities. One hundred percent of contributions to the Reconciliation and Healing Fund will go to local projects as determined through consultation with Mi’kmaw leadership, the Mi’kmaq Pastoral Council, survivors, elders, and other community members.
How can you give?
- Donate online: www.halifaxyarmouth.org and click on Donate.
- Send a donation by e-transfer to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please note “September 2023 Donation” in the memo box.
I ask that you prayerfully consider partnering with us to create lasting, meaningful change through supporting reconciliation efforts and encouraging dialogue, awareness, and, most importantly, action.
Sincerely in Christ,
+ Brian Joseph Dunn
Archbishop of Halifax-Yarmouth
