As part of their commitment to reconciliation, the federal government passed legislation earlier this year to make September 30 a federal statutory holiday. Called the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, it answers the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Call to Action #80;

We call upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to establish, as a statutory holiday, a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.

While the holiday has not been adopted at the Provincial level, residents of the Town of Perth are encouraged to take time on September 30 to reflect.

“The discoveries found at the sites of former residential schools brought to light to many the dark legacy of residential schools,” states Mayor John Fenik. “On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I encourage our residents to honour these children, as well as their families and other Survivors. Let us look to how we can help move forward on the path to reconciliation.”

An Orange Shirt Day Ceremony will take place on Thursday, Sept. 30 at 5:30p.m. at the Perth Healing Forest Memorial located in Last Duel Park, hosted by the Lanark County Neighbours for Truth & Reconciliation. The National Centre for Truth & Reconciliation is also hosting a number of virtual events throughout the week. Visit https://nctr.ca/education/trw/general-public-schedule/ for more information.

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