Name: Thundersky Walkingbear
Hometown: Thunder Child First Nation
Program: Geography
 
What is the message you'd like to spread this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?
"I'd like people to get a better grasp of what happened to Indigenous people in the past so that all of us as Canadians can grow collectively and get a better understanding of one another. It's important for people to have a better understanding of what my grandparents and ancestors had to endure so that future generations like myself can enjoy having opportunities like pursuing a degree, playing sports and even just being a part of modern society. This day is important because it brings light to a dark and hidden topic like residential schools and what happened within them."
 
What is one thing you wish people understood about Indigenous history or present experience?
"People need to understand that this is still ongoing. There are still discoveries being made, even right here in Kamloops. We as Indigenous people knew about the atrocities at residential schools but it was a big shock for the rest of Canada when they found out. It still impacts people to this day, it's generational trauma."  
 
What do you think about when you think about the "Truth" in "Truth and Reconciliation"?
"Truth to me means that we need to acknowledge the horrible things that happened in the past and to bring truth and justice to the people and organizations that did these horrible things."  
 
What would you like Canadians to do not only on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation but all year-round?
"To continue to show their support and respect to each and every one of us. Not only Indigenous people – this is a day about truth and reconciliation - but we are all Canadians together, so I think this day is about all of us."
 
"I would like Canadians to recognize land acknowledgments and all the unceded land and territories that they live on. It is important to acknowledge what territory you are on and which people's lands they are occupying. Hearing those land acknowledgments is a big sign of respect towards me and to acknowledge that this is where my people reside and who the land belongs brings a big sense of respect."