National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2022

September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. We hope you take this day to pause and reflect on the history of Canada and its relationship with First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, as well as working towards a different future that respects and acknowledges the unique and independent role of all First Nations. We encourage you to challenge yourself to find your role in building a harmonious relationship with the original peoples of this land.

Angie is a member of SEIU-West's First Nations, Métis and Inuit Committee (FNMIC). Here is her story:

Imagine being taking away from your family at a young age by the government to be placed in an unfamiliar place (Residential School) with strangers.

Strangers that by the authority of government, were told to take the Indian out you. Strangers that physically, verbally, and sexually abused you. Strangers that wouldn’t let you speak your language or practice your cultural beliefs. Suppose it was you or your child. How would you feel?

I wouldn’t want that to happen to any child.

My grandma was a residential school survivor. She lost many years with her family and culture as a result of Canada's actions. She has seen and experienced awful things. She had her Indian Status taken away because she married my grandfather, who was a German. Her children were taken away from her and placed in different foster homes as a part of the 60's scoop. My mom, aunts and uncles grew up separated from one another. They never learned their culture growing up, because my grandma never knew hers. This continued along the generational line until the present. I am slowly trying to learn my culture, and I will teach my children. First Nation culture traditionally was to use what the land gave you, and in return you would respect the land. That’s a part of my Culture and that makes me proud.

By sharing knowledge and supporting one another, our workplaces and communities will be richer.

Angela Munshaw

Did you know that September 30, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is not recognized as a statutory holiday by the Saskatchewan government? Fill out this petition to let the government know that it should be!

Follow these links for some local events happening around Saskatchewan:

Saskatoon Tribal Council Pow Wow

Rock Your Roots Walk in Saskatoon and more!

Events at Wanuskewin

Events in Regina

Events in Moose Jaw

Attend a virtual panel discussion on Indigenous Perspectives on the Pope's Apology, hosted by the Downie-Wenjack Fund

Attend a virtual webinar on Decolonizing Health Care hosted by the Canadian Health Coalition.

Click here to find the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's (TRC) reports, and here for the 94 TRC Calls to Action.