Each year on September 30th, Canada observes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day honors the Indigenous children and families who never returned home, as well as those who survived residential schools in Canada.
The history of residential schools is a dark and unfortunate part of Canadian history. The residential school system which operated from the 1800’s into the 20th century, would forcibly separate children from their families and teach them to not acknowledge their culture or speak their native languages.
The goal is to rebuild trust and support the Indigenous Peoples of Canada, as well as providing them with equitable employment and economic development opportunities. Businesses are also asked to provide skills-based staff training in anti-racism and intercultural competency.
There were a variety of events, conversations, and actions, to not only acknowledge and commemorate those affected, but to inspire change towards a better future for the Indigenous population as a whole.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
