Truth and Reconciliation Day: Leave It Better

What will we leave behind? The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation calls on all Canadians to consider this question, which lies at the centre of the 2026 Action Canada Lecture on Reconciliation and Public Policy. 

Delivered in Whitehorse, the lecture by CYFN Grand Chief Math’ieya Alatini presents a vision for northern development that protects the land, strengthens communities, creates lasting opportunity and is founded on trust. 

As Canada advances priorities in energy, mining and critical minerals, defence, infrastructure and Arctic sovereignty, Grand Chief Alatini demonstrates why development rests on firmer ground when First Nations hold a meaningful role in determining whether, where and how it proceeds. 

She urges policymakers and Canadians to listen closely, to examine the assumptions that shape whose perspectives are heard and acted upon, and to broaden participation in public policy. She affirms that leaving things better than we found them is a shared responsibility. 

The Action Canada Lecture on Reconciliation and Public Policy is held annually in memory of Sarah Robinson, a 2014/15 Action Canada Fellow, and in recognition of her commitment to dialogue on Indigenous histories, reconciliation and action.  

The Public Policy Forum and Action Canada extend their sincere thanks to Grand Chief Alatini and to Yukon University for its partnership and for hosting the lecture on campus.  

This lecture was presented by Action Canada and the Public Policy Forum, in partnership with Indspire’s Rivers to Success program, Canadian Heritage, and Power Corporation of Canada.