Final Report on Indigenous Reparation Framework Released in Gatineau

In Gatineau, QC, on October 29, 2024, Kimberly R. Murray, the Independent Special Interlocutor, released her Final Report on the Indigenous-led Reparations Framework concerning missing and disappeared children and unmarked burials associated with Indian Residential Schools in Canada. This initiative comes after two years of extensive engagement with survivors and Indigenous communities and aims to tackle the severe injustices and legislative gaps that exist regarding this sensitive issue. The report identifies critical obligations that government agencies, religious institutions, and other organizations must fulfill to support the reparations framework. Notably, it mentions the need for a Commission of Investigations to address the enforced disappearance of Indigenous children, shedding light on what can be termed a state-sanctioned crisis that has persisted for decades. Significantly, the findings reflect a pattern of 'settler amnesty' and a prevailing culture of impunity, illustrating the broader socio-political context in which these tragedies occurred. The Final Report stresses the importance of recognizing and honoring the Survivors who have bravely shared their experiences. This publication serves as a foundational component toward justice and reconciliation, setting a course for future actions that must be taken to ensure these obligations are recognized and fulfilled. The report is now available for public consultation on the Independent Special Interlocutor's official website.