The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada was established to uncover the impacts of the residential school system and promote healing between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. In 2015, the TRC released 94 Calls to Action aimed at all levels of government, institutions, and individuals to address ongoing injustices and advance reconciliation. While some progress has been made, many of these Calls to Action remain unfulfilled. This essay will explore two specific Calls to Action that have not yet been implemented: Call to Action #45, which involves a Royal Proclamation of Reconciliation, and Call to Action #56, which calls for an annual Prime Minister's report on reconciliation. It will also discuss personal commitments I can make as an active participant in the reconciliation process.

One Call to Action that could be implemented with political will is Call to Action #56, which asks the Prime Minister to issue an annual “State of Aboriginal Peoples” report to Parliament. This report would outline plans to advance reconciliation and track progress over time. It’s a practical way to keep reconciliation on the public agenda and ensure government accountability. Despite its potential impact, this Call has not been fulfilled. The reason I chose this Call is because it is logistically simple compared to others—it does not require new legislation or major funding, but rather a commitment to transparency and responsibility. If the Prime Minister delivered this report each year, it would send a strong message that reconciliation is a national priority. While the political landscape can be unpredictable, this is a concrete step that could realistically be implemented now.

In contrast, Call to Action #45 presents more challenges. It calls for the Government of Canada, in partnership with Indigenous peoples, to develop and issue a Royal Proclamation of Reconciliation. This would formally affirm the nation-to-nation relationship and Canada's constitutional obligations to Indigenous peoples. While symbolic, this proclamation would carry deep meaning and recognition. However, its implementation is complex. It requires high-level political coordination, consultation with diverse Indigenous nations, and collaboration with the Crown. The process could be slowed by differing views on content, representation, and jurisdiction. I chose this Call because, although it's ambitious, it represents a meaningful step toward decolonizing Canada's institutions. The challenge lies not in its purpose, but in the political and logistical effort required to bring all parties together in a respectful, inclusive way.

As an individual, I recognize that reconciliation is not just the work of governments or organizations—it is also my responsibility. One commitment I can make is to continue educating myself and others about Indigenous histories, cultures, and contemporary realities. I can actively support Indigenous-led initiatives in my community, including attending cultural events, supporting Indigenous businesses, and advocating for the inclusion of Indigenous voices in school and local government. Additionally, I commit to challenging stereotypes and speaking out against racism when I encounter it. Reconciliation begins with awareness and continues with action, and I want to be part of that ongoing process.

In conclusion, Canada still has important work to do to fulfill the TRC’s Calls to Action. Call to Action #56 could be implemented with relatively few barriers but has yet to be prioritized by political leadership. Call to Action #45, while deeply significant, faces challenges due to the complexity of involving multiple stakeholders. Despite these obstacles, we all have a role to play. By educating ourselves and taking intentional action, we can help move Canada closer to reconciliation. It is not only about righting past wrongs but about building a more just and respectful future for all.