The Provincial Government is encouraging residents of the province to remember and reflect on September 30, 2021 – the first provincial Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Newfoundland and Labrador. This day is also observed as Orange Shirt Day.
The observance of a day dedicated to honouring the survivors, families and communities who were deeply impacted by residential schools was a Call to Action directed to the Federal Government from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. In keeping with the spirit and intent of the Call to Action, the Federal Government and many provinces are observing this day.
The establishment of a provincial Day for Truth Reconciliation represents an important step on the road to Reconciliation.
There are many ways by which residents of the province can respectfully observe and honour this day. Some suggestions include seeking out Indigenous voices, attending events organized by Indigenous Governments and Organizations, reading a book, watching a video, going for a walk, starting a conversation, and respecting the land.
Citizens are also urged to wear orange on September 30 and any day of the year. Wearing orange honours the children who attended residential schools and recognizes the traumatic experience of Phyllis Webstad, who had her new orange shirt taken away from her on the first day she attended a residential school.
All Provincial Government offices and entities will be closed on September 30. Government has also committed to undertaking a review on how this day for reflection will be adopted by the public service next year, as well as province-wide.
Flags at Confederation Building and other provincial government buildings will be lowered to half-mast on September 30. In addition, Confederation Building will be lit in orange at dusk.
The Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation will commemorate the first provincial Day for Truth and Reconciliation by participating in a Walk and Vigil tomorrow (Thursday, September 30) at 11:00 a.m. The event starts at the Corner Brook Mikwite’tm Garden and is organized by the Qalipu First Nation.
Quotes
“We bear a responsibility to learn about the pain, trauma and suffering caused by residential schooling to Indigenous people. Everyone should make a pledge on the Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and throughout the year, to reflect on the pain caused by these schools by educating ourselves and others on the history and stories of residential schools. We should also strive to improve our understanding of the histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
“As announced earlier this month, the provincial public service will join the federal government in observing September 30. All government offices and entities will be closed for a day of reflection. We encourage residents to take time to learn about residential schools and reflect on the histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples.”
Honourable Siobhan Coady
President of Treasury Board
-30-
Learn more
Indigenous Governments and Organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador
Federal Government Statutory Holiday
Follow us on Twitter @GovNL
Like us on Facebook
Media contacts
Allan Bock
Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
709-896-4449, 899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca
Diana Quinton
Finance
709-729-2477, 697-1566
dianaquinton@gov.nl.ca