Truth and Reconciliation

Truth & Reconciliation Day Message

September 30, 2021

Dear OAMFT Members,

We want to acknowledge that the work of our Marriage and Family Therapists across Ontario takes place on traditional Indigenous territories. We are grateful to be able to work in these territories. We honour the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people who initially inhabited and cared for this land. We acknowledge that there are 46 treaties and other agreements that cover the territory that is now called Ontario, signed between 1781 and 1930. Acknowledging traditional Indigenous territories is only one way to show respect for Indigenous presence and land rights. It is a step towards arresting the continued impact of colonialism and healing from our history of erasing Indigenous culture.

The OAMFT Board of Directors would like take this opportunity on National Truth and Reconciliation Day to state that we acknowledge the land in Ontario, but also encourage further awareness of the atrocities of Colonization.

On this National day of Truth and Reconciliation, the OAMFT board encourages you read the “Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Call to Action,” and seek out any events online or in-person that are honouring this day. Wearing an orange shirt is the beginning; this is an invitation to work together to increase awareness and work towards wholeness and healing beyond this day.

Please join us on January 15, 2022 for our upcoming Annual Virtual Conference addressing how we as Marriage and Family Therapists in Ontario can support those in the Indigenous community. Taking these steps together in our community.

Thank you on behalf of the OAMFT Board of Directors.

Be well,

Melissa Johari, MSW, RSW
OAMFT President