In light of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Manitoba government announced that it will be providing more than $370,000 to support community events and programming that promote awareness of the history and legacy of residential schools and encourage meaningful discussions on past and ongoing injustices.
Premier Heather Stefanson says that she encourages all Manitobans to take time to reflect on Manitoba’s past and the path forward, and to participate in events that promote healing and relationship-building.
“Sept. 30 is an important day for reflection, learning, listening, healing and reaffirming our collective commitment to work with Indigenous leaders, Knowledge Keepers, elders, survivors and all Manitobans to advance truth and reconciliation and move forward together to build a brighter future for all,” Premier Stefanson adds.
According to Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister Alan Lagimodiere, the provincial government passed legislation in 2017 to recognize September 30th as Orange Shirt Day to encourage reflection and discussions about the trauma of residential schools on First Nations, Inuit and Métis people, as part of their commitment to the truth and reconciliation process.
“I am honoured to announce... that we are continuing to take purposeful action on our path to reconciliation by supporting a variety of initiatives that will support healing, learning and relationship-building,” Lagimodiere adds.
The minister says that as part of the provincial government’s observance of the day, non-essential government offices will be closed and flags at all provincial government buildings will be lowered to half-mast. In addition, the Legislative Building and the Memorial Park fountain will be lit orange and all schools will be closed.
A list of some of the events receiving government support, which includes the one being held by West Region Treaty 2 & 4 Health Services at Dauphin's CN Park, can be found here.
