Seeking Nominations

Individuals of recognized integrity, empathy, stature and respect with a demonstrated commitment to the values of truth, reconciliation, equity, and justice are being sought.

The Wabanaki Truth and Reconciliation Commission Selection Committee has until Oct. 1 to find candidates to serve in this historic process of uncovering the truth of the child welfare practices concerning native children in Maine.

For many generations the practice of taking native children away from their families, tribe and culture and trying to “get the Indian out of them” has devastated this community. Many of these children were additionally abused in their placement in boarding schools and foster homes. Maine’s child welfare history continues to impact Wabanaki children and families today.

The purpose of this Truth and Reconciliation is to develop a common understanding of what happened, to support healing of everyone affected by the system, and to identify possible system reforms to create the best child welfare system possible.

Nominations can be from any walk of life, both non-native as well as native people. It will take 2-3 days a month of their time as well as some longer periods of residency on the reservations. Please find out more and download nomination forms by going to the website: http://www.mainetribaltrc.org/

Arla Patch

Bryant Pond