Creating Safety in Harmful Times: A Message from IRSSS
January 23, 2026 –
Over the past several days, IRSSS has witnessed an increase in harmful and denialist commentary on our social media platforms following our statement condemning the racist defacement of an Every Child Matters message in a BC community.
We want to be clear:
The Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) exists to support Survivors of Indian Residential Schools, Intergenerational Survivors, and impacted communities. We will not allow our platforms to become spaces where racism, denialism, or hate speech causes further harm to Indigenous people seeking safety, support, and healing.
Recent incidents, including racist graffiti and public demonstrations that deny the truths of Residential Schools, are painful reminders that colonial violence is not only historical. Denialism retraumatizes Survivors and undermines truth, accountability, and reconciliation.
For more than 30 years, IRSSS has supported Survivors and their families through the ongoing impacts of intergenerational trauma. The need for culturally safe, Indigenous-led supports remains vital - and will continue to be - precisely because these attitudes persist.
How to be a good ally right now -
You don’t need to engage in online arguments to make a difference. Allyship can be gentle, steady, and meaningful:
Check in on Indigenous friends, colleagues, and community members, especially when harmful narratives are circulating.
Listen and believe Survivors. Residential School truths are not up for debate.
Challenge misinformation thoughtfully when safe to do so, or choose not to amplify it.
Share culturally safe resources so people know where to turn for support.
IRSSS will continue to moderate our platforms to ensure they remain welcoming, respectful, and safe for Survivors, families, donors, allies, and community members.
You are not alone. Support, care, and community remain here.
If you or someone you care about has been impacted by these events, support is available:
IRSSS 24/7 Crisis Line: 1-800-721-0066
Culturally safe, Indigenous-led support services: Learn more >>
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to support Indigenous-led healing work, donations help sustain our programs and services for Survivors and families.
The Indian Residential School Survivors Society is a registered Canadian charity. Donations are eligible for a tax receipt.