The national organization representing Canada’s academic staff supports the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Report exposing the legacy of Canada’s residential schools and calls for concrete action to end racism and systemic discrimination in education.

“CAUT acknowledges that all too often educational institutions have been complicit in the damaging effects of colonialization” said CAUT President Robin Vose, “The recommendations in this report provide a roadmap for moving forward.”

The report highlights several recommendations for post-secondary education including new legislation developed with the full participation and informed consent of Aboriginal Peoples, increased funding for Aboriginal students seeking post-secondary education and eliminating the education gaps between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Canadians.

The report also recommends that post-secondary institutions offer degree and diploma programs in Aboriginal languages, incorporate Indigenous Knowledge and pedagogy into curricula and teaching practice and implement conflict resolution, human rights, anti-racism, and intercultural competency training for medical, nursing, and law students.

“CAUT stands in solidarity with all those affected by the residential school system and supports any efforts that can be made to contribute to reconciliation,” said Vose. “The federal government should step up and follow through.”

The Canadian Association of University Teachers is the national voice of 68,000 academic and general staff at 120 universities and colleges across the country.