For National Indigenous History Month, MTBA would like to highlight and commend local steps towards reconciliation: Healing Forests, an important Truth and Reconciliation program run by the National Healing Forest Initiative.

In December 2015, the Residential School Truth and Reconciliation’s (TRC) Final Report was published to seek truth and increase awareness of the history and legacy of residential schools in Canada. The TRC’s Final Report identifies both barriers to reconciliation and opportunities for constructive action within existing, and potentially beneficial, legislative frameworks. The TRC’s 94 Calls to Action outlines specific items for all Canadians to reflect on and aspire to in our path(s) towards reconciliation.

The Forest Concept

To assist with emotional and physical healing, Peter Croal and Patricia Stirbys worked to develop the concept of Healing Forests; green spaces that honour the victims and survivors of the residential school system, as well as the Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG). Forests, like many natural landscapes, have a calming and spiritual effect on people. Nature is often a destination for those seeking stress relief and/or emotional and physical well-being.

The concept for a Healing Forest varies in size and type of landscape, ranging from local parks and schoolyards to private woodlots and church grounds. Each forest is unique, drawing design inspiration and function from intimate community needs. Healing Forests can include outdoor gathering spaces, walking trails, or plots dedicated to growing sacred plants and trees. Participation in the Healing Forest initiative is open to any individual or group, Indigenous or non-Indigenous. The only requirement is that the forest is created and used in the spirit of reconciliation and healing, with shared understanding, and respect.

Meaningful Steps

The David Suzuki Foundation is supporting the creation of Healing Forests this summer by offering 10 grants of up to $2,000. Applications will be accepted until July 1, 2022.

To learn more about Healing Forests and why they are important please visit Healing Forests – David Suzuki Foundation and National Healing Forests.