I was delighted to have my granddaughters Layla & Kiara, alongside Senator White's granddaughter Piper - who are fancy shawl dancers - visit the Senate last week and be recognized in the Chamber. I could not be more proud and happy to see Indigenous youth in parliamentary spaces.

I asked my colleagues to keep their families, as well as all those injured and affected, in our hearts as they mourn this heartbreaking loss, which occurred on a day already heavy with grief and remembrance for so many.

Today, in the Senate, I also took a moment to honour the memory of the two beloved Elders from Tsawwassen First Nation who tragically lost their lives during an event marking September 30.

These are three priorities, among many others, that require a united and meaningful response from our chamber.

🟠 3. Confront the growing threat of residential school denialism before it becomes more visible, organized, and harmful. What occurred at Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc on Sunday is a reminder that this is not a distant threat, but a growing reality.

🟠 2. Preserve the invaluable records collected through the Independent Assessment Process, which are currently scheduled to be permanently destroyed in 2027, while respecting the confidentiality promised to Survivors.

We must urge the Government of Canada to: 🟠 1. Provide sustained and predictable funding for Indigenous-led initiatives that advance truth, justice, and healing.

Yesterday, on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, I heard three clear calls to action from Survivors. Today, I echoed those calls in the Senate.

As we reflect on the past and look to the future, I encourage everyone to learn more about these living agreements and the responsibilities they place on all of us. Let us recommit to honouring their spirit, upholding their promises, and building a stronger future together.

October 1 also marks the beginning of Mi'kmaq History Month, which provides us all with an opportunity to deepen our understanding of our shared history and responsibilities while honouring the rich cultures, contributions, and resilience of First Nations in Epekwitk and across Mi'kma'ki.

The Mi'kmaq never surrendered or ceded our traditional lands or resource rights. Instead, our ancestors pursued a path of diplomacy and entered into agreements with the Crown that brought an end to hostilities and laid the foundation for peaceful coexistence.

Each year, on October 1, we mark Treaty Day, a time to celebrate the enduring nation-to-nation relationship forged through the Peace and Friendship Treaties.

Thank you to all the schools for creating space for these important discussions. & A special thank you to Xavier Thomas from Stonepark* for the generous gift of the drum and painting. They are truly appreciated.

We discussed their origins and lasting impacts, and how each of us can contribute to advancing truth and reconciliation. I was deeply impressed by the care and attentiveness of the students. Their willingness to learn gives me hope for the future, and I look forward to future visits.

In advance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation & Orange Shirt Day on September 30, I had the opportunity to visit students at Stonepark, Kensington, and East Wiltshire Schools to speak about a lesser-known part of Canada's history: Indian Day Schools.