Boozhoo, Kwe Kwe, Tanisi, Shé:kon, Aniin, Bonjour, Hello,
On September 30th, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we come together to honor the survivors of residential schools, the children who never returned home, and their families and communities who continue to feel the impact of these tragic chapters in Canada’s history. This day serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to remember, reflect, and take meaningful action toward reconciliation.
As your CEIU Indigenous Representative, I encourage each of you to use this day as an opportunity to learn about the true history of Indigenous peoples in Canada, acknowledge the painful legacy of residential schools, and commit to actions that support healing and reconciliation.
How You Can Participate:
- Wear Orange: Wearing an orange shirt today symbolizes our collective commitment to reconciliation and honors the experiences of survivors and their families.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Take time to read, watch, or listen to Indigenous voices that share stories of resilience, culture, and the impacts of colonialism.
- Support Indigenous Communities: Support local Indigenous businesses, artists, and initiatives, and advocate for Indigenous rights within your own spheres of influence.
Together, we can build a path forward grounded in respect, understanding, and genuine partnership with Indigenous communities.
Perspective from an FNMI Committee Member: Janique Labelle
Chi Miigwetch, Wela’lin, Nia:wen, Thank you, Merci
Thank you for standing with us on this journey of Truth and Reconciliation.
In Solidarity,
Corrina Gavan, CEIU Ontario Regional Council Indigenous Representative
AND
CEIU ON FNMI Committee
Jackson Hollander, Corrina Gavan, Jasmine Morin, Sue-Anne Atkins, Bianca Jacobs, Janique Labelle, Adam Murphy