Province marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Today, September 30, is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a time to recognize the lasting impacts of the residential school system and to honour the survivors, the children who never returned home, and their families and communities.
Also recognized as Orange Shirt Day, the day provides an opportunity to reflect on the history and legacy of residential schools and the ongoing work toward reconciliation.
Islanders are encouraged to wear orange in recognition of the message that Every Child Matters and to learn more about the history and ongoing impacts of residential schools.
To mark the day, Premier Rob Lantz invited the Chiefs of the PEI Mi’kmaq First Nations, along with members of the Indigenous community and the public, for a short reflection at the Provincial Administration Building this morning. Flags were lowered to half-mast following the gathering.
The Provincial Administration Building will be lit in orange this evening.
Quotes:
“On the sixth annual observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, Epekwitk (Prince Edward Island) joins the rest of Canada to honour the generations of Indigenous children who were forced to attend residential schools, day schools, and related institutions, and in remembering and mourning all those who died or disappeared and never returned home. This solemn occasion provides us all with an opportunity not just to listen and learn, but also to act. On September 30, and every day after, we must stand in steadfast solidarity with the Indigenous families and communities who continue to carry the impacts of this history and legacy, and walk alongside them on the long journey toward reconciliation rooted in truth, driven by justice, and sustained through healing."
-Senator Brian Francis
“It is easy to become lost in the sorrow and trauma of Residential School Survivors' experiences, and in the holes left in our families and communities by the children who did not return. It would be so easy to give up. Instead, our communities stood up. The strength, resilience, and kindness I see daily among the Mi'kmaq bolsters my spirit. I have hope and faith for our future, one where Mi'kmaw culture is honoured and Mi'kmaw children know their ancestors and traditions.”
- Lennox Island First Nation Chief Tabatha Bernard
“Coming together today to reflect on truth and reconciliation reminds us that healing is a journey we walk together. We remember the children, and we honour the strength of Survivors and their families. That strength is carried forward by each generation, and intergenerational healing grows when we learn from one another, listen with open hearts, and share our stories with our children and grandchildren. When Mi'kmaq and Islanders work side by side, we build a future rooted in understanding, respect, and pride in who we are.”
- Abegweit First Nation Chief Junior Gould
“Reconciliation is a responsibility we share and it requires us to listen, learn and act. Today, we remember the children who never came home, honour survivors and their families, and recognize the lasting impacts of residential schools. Our government is committed to continuing this work alongside First Nations and Indigenous communities, strengthening relationships built on respect, trust and a shared commitment to reconciliation.”
-Premier Rob Lantz
Learn more about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Media contacts:
Nicole Yeba
Executive Council Office
ntyeba@gov.pe.ca
Sean Doke
L'nuey
902-330-4420
sdoke@lnuey.ca