Wednesday, September 29, 2021
On September 30, CSRD employees will take the day to recognize the new federal statutory holiday, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.
It is a sombre occasion to recognize and allow Canadians to reflect on the horrendous role in the residential school system and the abuses suffered by Indigenous children and families across multiple generations. It is a time for each of us to look inward and think about how to move forward and shed some light on a very dark part of our Canadian history.
On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the thoughts of CSRD Directors and staff are with the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Elders, children, parents, and community members in our region and across the country who continue to feel the hurt, oppression and trauma from Canada's forced residential schooling for Indigenous children.
The CSRD also encourages all of its residents to take some time to learn more about Truth and Reconciliation. An important resource is the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation website.
This day may be emotionally distressing and difficult. Support is available via B.C.'s First Nations and Aboriginal Crisis line at 800-588-8717 or the National Indian Residential School Crisis line at 866-925-4419.
