National Day for Truth and Reconciliation - Members Statement

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, I rise today to join my colleagues in acknowledging tomorrow, September 30th, as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: the day we honour the survivors of the residential school system and remember those who never made it home.

Recognizing the painful history of Indigenous communities and their impact is an important part of reconciliation, but it must be followed with action. Many of the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada call on provincial governments to act.

There is work to be done in reducing the number of Indigenous children in care, the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the justice system, and access to post-secondary education for Indigenous students.

This day serves as a reminder of the importance of reconciliation and an opportunity to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Mi'kmaw people and their ongoing contributions. I encourage my fellow members to spend time in community and consider the ways that we, as representatives, contribute to the act of reconciliation.