Football Canada Observes National Truth and Reconciliation Day, Reinforces Commitment to Indigenous Communities through Sport
Ottawa, ON – Recognizing the rich history and enduring influence of Indigenous peoples in Canadian sports, Football Canada stands committed to fostering inclusivity and respect within the game. On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we celebrate the role of football in promoting reconciliation, education, and the strengthening of communities across the nation.
The Role of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is rooted in the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC), established as part of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement. The commission’s comprehensive final report, released in 2015, includes 94 “calls to action” aimed at advancing reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada.
Among these calls to action, five specifically address sport, recognizing it as a crucial vehicle for promoting and celebrating Indigenous culture. Reconciliation in sports is vital, as participation is successful only when people feel welcome and included. Historically, Indigenous people have often been excluded or marginalized in sports, and reconciliation efforts are essential in making sports more inclusive and better for all. As part of its ongoing commitment to these principles, Football Canada continues to work closely with Indigenous leaders, provincial associations, sponsors, and other key partners to further reconciliation through sport.
“As we honour Reconciliation Day, we must remember that the children who went to residential schools didn’t have football fields or playgrounds—they faced graveyards. Today, through our programs and the expansion of the Orange Jersey Project, we are reclaiming those spaces for Indigenous boys and girls to play for the ones who didn’t make it home”, said Kevin Hart, CEO and President of Indigenous Football Canada. “We are building fields of hope, pride, and opportunity where once there was only loss and silence. This work is about more than sport—it’s about ensuring that every Indigenous child has a place to grow, dream, and succeed. Reconciliation comes through action, and together, we are changing the narrative for future generations.”
Symbolic Gestures of Unity
During this past event season, in a gesture of unity, Football Canada donated Team Canada’s World Junior warm-up jerseys—after winning the 2024 IFAF World Juniors—to Indigenous Football Canada for use in both national and international competitions. These jerseys, designed after those worn during the world’s first-ever international gridiron game in 1944, symbolize a deep connection between our sports history and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
As we honour this legacy, we also recognize that Canada is more than just 10 provinces and 3 territories; it encompasses all of the diverse and vibrant Indigenous communities from coast to coast to coast. These communities deserve equal representation within Canada’s sports structures, ensuring that all athletes have the opportunity to excel and be recognized on the national stage.
Football Canada’s Commitment to Indigenous Communities
“On National Truth and Reconciliation Day, Football Canada reaffirms its commitment to reconciliation by working with Indigenous sport communities to promote inclusion and cultural awareness,” stated Peter Baxter, Chair of the Board of Football Canada. “Through partnership with those communities, we strive to amplify Indigenous voices, promote cultural awareness, and ensure football is an inclusive and respectful space for all Indigenous athletes, coaches, leaders, and communities.”
Football Canada is committed to supporting Indigenous Football Canada in the development of its athletes, ensuring they have equal opportunities to grow and achieve national and international recognition. By embracing and supporting Indigenous communities within the brotherhood and sisterhood that is the sport of football, we aim to foster growth, unity, and a stronger Canada for all.
Historic Achievements of the Women’s U18 Indigenous National Team
This year’s Women’s U18 Indigenous National Team stands as a powerful symbol of diversity, unity, and progress within Indigenous communities across Canada. Comprising talented athletes from 16 different Nations, the team embodied cultural pride, resilience, and athletic excellence. Their participation in the 2024 U18 Women’s National Championship was historic, marking significant milestones in the program and showcasing their skill, determination, and potential on the national stage.
The team made history by securing their first-ever victory in the championship—a thrilling win over Ontario Black. This landmark achievement was a testament to their hard work, teamwork, and the rising talent in women’s football among Indigenous athletes. Players like Sienna Deschambault, Justice Berens, and Taj-Marie Thompson emerged as standout performers, becoming symbols of what Indigenous youth can achieve in football.
Their collective efforts not only contribute to the growth of football within Indigenous communities but also highlight the power of sport to bridge cultures and create lasting bonds. As we celebrate their accomplishments, we recognize that their journey is a vital part of not only our ecosystem of athletes and teams but also the broader movement toward reconciliation and the promotion of diversity within Canadian sports. Their dedication and success serve as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that inclusion and opportunity can have on individuals, communities, and organizations.
Nationwide Initiatives Supporting Reconciliation
In the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation, the broader football community has also stepped up to make meaningful statements. Every CFL team has redesigned their logos in collaboration with Indigenous artists, with these special designs being used throughout this past weekend’s games to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This initiative not only honours Indigenous culture but also serves as a powerful visual statement of solidarity and respect from the highest level of our sport in Canada.
The logos were created by local Indigenous artists to honour the game’s close ties with Indigenous communities across the country and to reaffirm the league’s commitment to recognizing the past while focusing on a path forward centred on awareness, education, and action. Additionally, the CFL has released a documentary on the U18 Indigenous Women’s team, highlighting their journey during the U18 Women’s National Championship, and their challenges and triumphs.
You can view it here:
https://youtube.com/watch?v=-Hc5zpxKOHY%3Fsi%3Dr00UmGA-stLIt6J7
Insights from Indigenous Football Canada Leadership
In a recent interview with APTN, Kevin Hart, President and CEO of Indigenous Football Canada, reflected on the organization’s origins and progress. Hart shared that Indigenous Football Canada was formed out of a diversity task force in 2018 under Football Canada. Since then, the organization has made significant strides, particularly with the U18 Women’s team. Hart highlighted the team’s journey from its initial challenges to securing a silver medal in the Cummings Division in just their second year of existence, showcasing the resilience and talent of Indigenous athletes.
Hart also emphasized the importance of recognition and support from the broader football community, including organizations like the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, who have honoured the team’s achievements. However, he pointed out the need for more consistent support from provincial and federal governments, underscoring that Indigenous Football Canada is here to stay and committed to creating opportunities for Indigenous youth.
You can view it here:
https://youtube.com/watch?v=jjvJJAwxyJA%3Fsi%3Dntmjl3CFXuIblDL7
“Reconciliation is more than a commitment—it’s a collective journey that enriches both our sport and our nation,” said Kevin McDonald, Executive Director of Football Canada. “By embracing and supporting Indigenous communities within the brotherhood and sisterhood that is the sport of football, we aim to foster growth, unity, and a stronger Canada for all. Football has the power to bring people together, to transcend differences, and to create lasting bonds. As we collaborate with Indigenous athletes, Indigenous Football Canada, and community leaders, our goal is to not only enhance the diversity and talent within the sport but also contribute to a shared future grounded in understanding and respect. Together, we can build a more inclusive game that reflects the true spirit of Canada.”
As we pause to honour National Truth and Reconciliation Day, Football Canada reaffirms its commitment to fostering a deeper understanding and respect for Indigenous communities through the unifying power of sport. Together, we look forward to continuing this journey of healing, friendship, and competition.
About Indigenous Football Canada
Indigenous Football Canada is dedicated to leading, promoting, and developing positive football experiences within Indigenous communities. They provide strategic leadership that facilitates, supports, and advocates for increased participation and excellence among Indigenous athletes across Canada. Indigenous Football Canada aspires to be a key partner in improving the health and well-being of Indigenous peoples by acknowledging and enhancing the social and economic benefits of football, as well as supporting elite and national team performance.
About Football Canada
Football Canada is the national governing body for Canadian amateur football. Founded in 1880, it is one of Canada’s oldest sports organizations. Football Canada works in partnership with provincial and territorial football associations and collaborates with other sports organizations to promote and develop the game of football at all levels.
Contact Information
Braydon Stachel
Marketing and Communications Manager
Football Canada
bstachel@footballcanada.com
For more information and updates, please visit our website at www.footballcanada.com.
