Elders hold the fabric of their communities together. Their wisdom, stories, and cultural teachings are not just pillars of Indigenous life but touchstones for all of Canada as we walk the path of truth and reconciliation. 

The Indian Boarding Homes (IBH) Class Action Community Engagement Team recognizes the vital role Elders have in this ongoing dialogue. Because of this, Elders are actively engaged in the Information Sessions we hold across Indigenous communities in Canada. 

Most Information Sessions begin with opening words or prayers from a local Elder. These moments ground our gatherings, creating a safe and respectful space for survivors to be supported and empowered to revisit their pasts with openness, courage, and healing. 

We are continually humbled by the Elders we meet—those who generously share stories, encourage others, and weave connection using their own languages while offering comfort and cultural continuity.

Many survivors who attend our sessions are also Elders. They bring with them a lifetime of experience, resilience, and knowledge. For many of these Elders, filing a claim through the settlement process is more than seeking compensation—it’s about voicing their stories, contributing to reconciliation, and helping others through the journey. 

Their leadership strengthens the fabric of this healing journey, and they are a cornerstone of our community engagement.

We were pleased to attend the 49th Annual BC Elders Gathering that took place August 26–27, 2025 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. This important event brought together the wisdom of Elders and the aspirations of younger generations. 

Members of the Indian Boarding Homes Class Action Community Engagement Team were on site and able to connect with individuals and Elders to: 

• Answer questions about the settlement
• Provide claim forms and assistance 
• Offer Elders, and the Indigenous community as a whole, resources and support related to the Indian Boarding Homes Class Action and settlement 

If you are an Elder, or if you work closely with Elders, and would like to help build awareness about the Indian Boarding Homes Class Action and settlement, we want to hear from you. Together, we can continue to offer meaningful Elder support and guide survivors through the claims process. 

Email: claims@boardinghomesclassaction.com
Call: 1-888-499-1144