Today marks the beginning of Truth and Reconciliation Week, a chance for all Canadians to learn more about the history, culture and experience of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples of Turtle Island.
The week will culminate on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – also known as Orange Shirt Day – on Saturday. Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led commemoration begun to honour the children who never returned home from the residential schools they were forced to attend – as well as the survivors, their families and communities. It reminds us that Every Child Matters.
As a Union, Local 793 recognizes the role we can play in creating a brighter, more prosperous future for everyone. That is why we are reaching out to Indigenous communities across Ontario and Nunavut so that more Indigenous people can get the training they need to access good-paying jobs in the skilled trades.
More must be done. We must take some time this week to educate ourselves on the truth of our history with Indigenous peoples and reflect on what each of us can do now to further the cause of reconciliation. We should also remember that as Union members and Canadians we are always stronger when we stand together.
For more information on Orange Shirt Day, CLICK HERE