Bear Witness Day: Support Equitable Access to Services for Indigenous Youth

On May 10, Bear Witness Day commemorates the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal’s ruling calling for the full implementation of Jordan’s Principle. Its goal is to ensure Indigenous children have fair access to services. In 2025, this day holds special significance given the systemic inequalities and mental health crises that disproportionately impact their communities. 

Take action now! Explore these key resources:

Spirit Bear and Children Make History: This learning resource developed by the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society tells the story of Jordan’s Principle and the struggle for equity from a child’s perspective.

I Am a Witness: This captivating video produced for Have a Heart Day highlights youth activism for social justice and reconciliation.

What you can do

Get informed: Watch the documentary Jordan River Anderson, The Messenger (National Film Board) and read the Back-to-Basics Approach behind Jordan’s Principle.

Raise awareness: Share photos of your teddy bears using the hashtags #JordansPrinciple and #BearWitnessDay. Amplify the messages of other organizations fighting for Indigenous children’s rights.

Take action: Host gatherings with your family and friends to remember Jordan. If they don’t know who he was, watch the documentary together. You can also show your support by putting a bear in your window.

PSAC is calling on the next federal government to act to ensure that Indigenous youth have fair access to essential services.

By taking part in Bear Witness Day, you support not only equity for First Nations children, but also reconciliation. Let’s work together so that every child can have the future they deserve.

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May 8, 2025