National Indigenous Peoples Day is a time for recognizing and celebrating the cultures and contributions of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples of Canada. This is a great occasion to learn more about the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of these three groups of Aboriginal peoples, also known as Indigenous peoples.
Last year, this was a somber day as we’d recently learned about the discovery of the remains of 215 Indigenous children near the former Kamloops Residential School on the lands of the Tk’emlups te Secwépemc First Nation in British Columbia.
Since last spring, evidence of hundreds of other graves has been found at the sites of other former residential schools.
Today, these revelations have fallen somewhat out of the public conversation. As a result, it is more important than ever for Canada to affirm its commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.
IUOE Local 793 stands with Indigenous people, both across the country and within our Union membership, as they continue to call for action to bring truth and reconciliation to address the horrific tragedies that occurred at Canada’s residential schools.
Learning about Indigenous Peoples, places and experiences is a step forward each Canadian can take on the path to reconciliation.
Resources:
National Indigenous Peoples Day Activities
Learn more about National Indigenous Peoples Day
Learn more about First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples across Canada
Canada’s Progress on Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action