Over the past few months, Canadians have been honouring the lives of children found in unmarked graves at residential schools across the country. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) has identified that approximately 4,000 children died tragically in residential schools.
In June the Canadian government passed legislation to mark September 30 as a federal statutory holiday to acknowledge truth and reconciliation, as recommended by the TRC.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, previously known as Orange Shirt Day, is an opportunity to recognize and commemorate the tragic history and ongoing legacy of residential schools. It is also a day to honour and remember the survivors, their families and communities who continue to bear witness to these tragedies.
“Reconciliation is the only way forward given the devastating impact of residential schools on Indigenous kids and their families. We can appreciate the tremendous loss that residential schools created for tens of thousands of Indigenous families, and their communities,” said Mayor Peckford.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in North Grenville
On September 30, at 12 pm, Council will raise the Every Child Matters Flag. Indigenous leaders, members of the public, students, families, and Municipal Staff are warmly invited to attend this public event.
As such, the Municipal Office will be closed from 12 pm until 2 pm.
Indigenous community members who wish to have a particular presence at the event are encouraged to reach out and contact Jill Sturdy at jsturdy@northgrenville.on.ca or call 613-258-9569 ext. 168.
“Council recognizes that September 30 is an opportunity for reflection, and, as such, has approved a day of observation and learning for municipal staff. In addition, all staff will be afforded the time to attend the flag raising ceremony,” added Council Kristin Strackerjan.
Several recommendations outlined in the 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action are focused on the role that municipal governments can play.
These include:
- Training on Indigenous issues for municipal staff and Council
- Raising of the Every Child Matters Flag on September 30
- Development of a land acknowledgment, in consultation with local Indigenous leaders and expected for early 2022
- Public engagement sessions later in the Fall with Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members
For more information visit: www.northgrenville.ca/live/community-involvement/truth-and-reconciliation
