Premier Heather Stefanson and Indigenous Reconciliation & Northern Relations Minister Alan Lagimodiere have released a statement with regards to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The statement follows:
Today, we recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and we encourage all Manitobans to participate in meaningful conversations about residential schools and their tragic and enduring legacies on First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a crucial day to remember the experiences of residential school survivors and their families. By taking part in conversations and activities, we all honour the healing journey of survivors and commit to the ongoing process of reconciliation.
As Manitobans and Canadians, we all have a role to play in the reconciliation process for Indigenous people who have suffered the physical and emotional trauma of the residential school system, and the legacy of intergenerational trauma that exists today. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation brings us one step further in the healing process. It is a day for truth-telling and reflection about the trauma faced by Indigenous people and their families, and to build a bridge to a healthier relationship.
The federal government established Sept. 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in 2021. The Manitoba government has also recognized this new federal statutory holiday as an opportunity for Manitobans to reflect on the impacts of residential schools, which still resonate today.
In 2017, Manitoba passed legislation to recognize formally Sept. 30 as Orange Shirt Day to acknowledge the trauma of residential schools on First Nations, Inuit and Métis. Flags on all provincial government buildings will be lowered today to half-mast to align with long-standing protocol for all national days of observance. Schools and non-essential government services and offices will also be closed for the day to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
