National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This
day is also known as Orange Shirt Day, the name
being used from a story shared by Phyllis Webstad of the the Stswecem’c
Xget’tem First Nation.
This is a day to remember and honour the Indigenous children
stolen from their families and communities and sent to residential schools and
it is a day to stand in solidarity with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis
peoples. It’s important that we all reflect on actions we can take to be strong
allies in our workplaces, unions, and communities.
While this day is now a “day off” from work, one should not think
of it as a holiday, but a day for non-Indigenous peoples to learn about
Canada’s colonial past and take meaningful action to move towards
reconciliation. Consider learning from nations and organizations such as the Songhees Nation, the Esquimalt Nation, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership
Council, the Victoria Native Friendship Centre, and the Indian Residential
School Survivors Society.
The Songhees Nation hosts the South Island Powwow (September 30th, 2024), and
everyone is welcome to attend to celebrate traditional indigenous cultures and
resiliency.
CUPE 951, it’s important for us to stand in solidarity with all
workers. Indigenous workers want and deserve what every worker wants: safe and
decent work and wages, and to be treated with dignity and fairness in the
workplace.
Join us in telling decision-makers we want to see concrete action
towards justice for Indigenous communities.