To honour survivors and raise awareness about the terrible legacy of residential schools in Canada, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, 2021.
Marking this day is an important symbol in the reconciliation process and fulfills a Call to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
The provincial public service will join the Federal Government in observing September 30. All government offices and entities will be closed for the day. All residents are encouraged to take time to learn about residential schools and reflect on the histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples.
As part of next steps, government will review how this day for reflection will be adopted by the public service next year, as well as province-wide.
The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, and the Honourable Siobhan Coady, President of Treasury Board, will be available today (Thursday, September 9) at 2:00 p.m. in the East Block Lobby of Confederation Building to discuss the Provincial Government’s recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Public health guidelines will be in place.
Quotes
“On September 30, we will join the Federal Government and other provinces and territories to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to recognize the legacy of residential schools. Marking this day is an important symbol in the reconciliation process, will bring much-needed awareness to the history of residential schools in Canada and encourage residents of Newfoundland and Labrador to learn more about Indigenous peoples.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
President of Treasury Board
“Since becoming Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, I have been striving to build a relationship with Indigenous peoples through collaboration, partnership and mutual respect. On the path we have taken to work towards achieving Reconciliation, we are urging all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to recognize the pain, trauma and suffering that has been caused by residential schools. Honour the victims, celebrate the survivors, and reflect on what we can do as a society to ensure history is not repeated.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation.
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Media contacts
Diana Quinton
Finance
709-729-2477, 697-1566
dianaquinton@gov.nl.ca
Allan Bock
Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
709-896-4449, 899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca