Sister Donna Geernaert, Congregational Leader, Sisters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul, Halifax, Campaign Co-chair

Co-chair message from Sister Donna Geernaert

Canadian Aboriginal peoples today count 1.3 million—a young population full of promise and potential. Patterns of the past have created many challenges for Aboriginal individuals and communities. But there has never been a better time to right the imbalance between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples in Canada.

Issues handed down over generations are part of our history, but we can ensure that they’re not part of our future. Combining our resources, we can support the ongoing healing. Programs for spiritual healing, especially, are key to making peace with the past.

And education is key to moving forward in hope. With accessible and culturally relevant education, we can help young people make more meaningful connections with their world. And through the sharing of our stories, we can all begin to move forward together, forging a new history of shared belief and contribution.”