In Canada, September 30, 2021 marks the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
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The day honours the lost indigenous children and residential school survivors, their families and communities. Public commemoration of this tragic and painful history, and the ongoing impacts of residential schools, is a vital component of the reconciliation process.
September 30 is an opportunity for everyone to learn about Truth and Reconciliation. At HPEDSB, students at every school will engage with age appropriate curriculum resources and learning opportunities to gain a better understanding of this chapter of Canadian history.
In its 2015 final report, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission was clear: "Without truth ... there can be no genuine reconciliation." The problem, the commissioners explained, is that "too many Canadians know little or nothing about the deep historical roots" of the ongoing issues stemming from settler colonialism generally, and residential schooling specifically.
Every one of us has a responsibility to reflect upon our role in reconciliation with Indigenous peoples and learn more about Indigenous history, cultures, the legacy of systemic discrimination and the residential school system, that continue to have ongoing impacts on First Nation, Métis and Inuit children, families and communities.
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To learn more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, please visit the Government of Canada website page National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.