We are humbled to announce our first annual Truth and Reconciliation Relay. From September 1st to September 30th, GSPS members will be logging their daily kilometres completed during work outs, walks, runs, etc. with a goal of completing one kilometre per child that never returned home from Canadian residential schools. This number is estimated to be 10,000 children (however we acknowledge that the true number may never be known as the search for unmarked graves is still ongoing).

We are running for all the child victims of Canadian Residential schools who endured unimaginable trauma; and for all the families whose lives were forever changed as they watched their children being taken away. Since the onset of colonization and through decades of intergenerational trauma, we acknowledge the role that Police played in systemic racism and we know that there is much work to be done in order to repair and heal the relationship between Police and the Indigenous community.

Each GSPS member participating in the Relay for Reconciliation will complete a 1-hour CPKN course entitled “Reflection on Truth and Reconciliation”, where they will learn about the Calls to Action brought forward by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

This challenge will end on September 30th, 2022, the National Truth and Reconciliation Day (aka Orange Shirt Day).

We’d like to introduce you to some of our Members who will be participating in the Relay. Meet Constable James Jefferson: James Jefferson

Q: Why did you volunteer to participate in the Truth and Reconciliation Relay?

A: As a Canadian and as a member of the Métis Nation of Ontario, I felt a responsibility to support Indigenous community members as well as Indigenous GSPS Members as we collectively work toward truth and reconciliation.

Q: Which Call to Action speaks to you, and why?

A: Call to Action 21; I believe the Government has to provide funding for existing and new healing centres to address the intergenerational trauma caused by the residential schools. People need healing.

Q: What does Reconciliation mean to you?

A: Reconciliation to me means healing the wounds of intergenerational trauma through the acknowledgment of truth in what Indigenous People have endured and continue to endure. It also means taking decisive action to make amends through the 94 Calls to Action.

Q: How do you hope to contribute to positive change, as an individual and as part of the GSPS?

A: I hope to help bring awareness and pay tribute to the children who endured the hardship of residential schools because every child matters.

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