In 2015, The Truth and Reconciliation Commission presented their final report. This report included 94 Calls to Action to further reconciliation between Canadians and Indigenous peoples. Call 80 of this report states:
We call upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to establish, as a statutory holiday, a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.
In response to this, September 30, 2021 will be the first official National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada. This day gives the public a chance to recognize and commemorate the intergenerational harm that residential schools have caused to Indigenous families and communities, and to honour those who have been affected by this injustice.
A reminder that while a specific day has been set aside to focus on Truth and Reconciliation, truth and reconciliation is an ongoing shift in focus and mindset. We are all on a growth journey that will last a lifetime.
Next week students will be taking part in activities throughout the week that allows them to reflect, learn and be part of the change in developing respectful and meaningful relationships with our Indigenous community.
We encourage you to be part of the change as well.
Further Resources:
- What You Can Watch, Listen and Read to Learn More About Truth and Reconciliation
- BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils - Truth & Reconciliation and Residential School Resources
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: Truth and Reconciliation Week
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action
Miss Nitasha Rajoo
Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion