The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada published 94 Calls to Action to redress the legacy of residential schools and advance the process of Canadian reconciliation. The recent discoveries of remains and unmarked graves across Canada have led to increased calls for all levels of government to address the recommendations in the TRC’s Calls to Action. All Canadians and all orders of government have a role to play in reconciliation. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission declared September 30th a National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. In consultation with Bruce County municipalities and community partners, a joint effort across the County has been initiated, and plans are underway for further learning by Brockton staff to honour the process of reconciliation.
The Council of the Municipality of Brockton passed a motion supporting the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission at the September 14, 2021 Council Meeting, recognizing September 30, 2021, as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (National Orange Shirt Day) by sharing the stories of residential school survivors, their families, and communities, and further approving implementing the Calls to Action made by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission including:
- Raising the Every Child Matters flag at half-mast this year on September 30, 2021; and in future years raising the Every Child Matters flag at half-mast for entire month of September (after Labour Day);
- Waiving any fees for Commissioning name change documents for residential school survivors;
- Encouraging staff to wear an orange shirt yearly for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (National Orange Shirt Day) on September 30th;
- Municipal employees participating in online training on September 30, 2021 to recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation;
- Encouraging staff to continue to review and identify any barriers for participation by aboriginal residents and facility users;
- Amending the Heritage Committee mandate to include researching and highlighting the history and legacy of Indigenous and Métis people in Brockton;
-Considering highlighting the stories of aboriginal Canadians in sport when preparing recreational pamphlets or banners, where appropriate.
By supporting these Calls to Action, the Municipality of Brockton is committing to redress the legacy of residential schools and advance the process of Canadian reconciliation.
We encourage the community to share their support for our indigenous communities by wearing orange on September 30th and educating themselves on Truth and Reconciliation, and the advocacy work completed by our First Nations and Indigenous communities.
source: press release, Municipality of Brockton
