South Bruce Recognizes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

For Immediate Release
September 29, 2023

SOUTH BRUCE, ON – During the week leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Municipality of South Bruce joined with others across Canada to commemorate the past and present injustices inflicted on Indigenous peoples and communities.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th raises awareness of the individual, family, and community inter-generational impacts of the residential school system. September 30th is also observed as Orange Shirt Day. Wearing an orange shirt honours survivors of residential schools and commemorates those whose lives were taken.

“Today, we recognize the tragic history and impact of the residential school system on Indigenous peoples and as a Municipality we take the opportunity to educate ourselves, and to foster respect and understanding,” said Mayor Mark Goetz.

The Municipality marked the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by hosting educational webinars from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation for staff and providing orange shirts for Council and staff to wear as an outward sign of observance.

Over the past two years the Municipality has hosted educational presentations with Indigenous knowledge keepers at the Community Liaison Committee and more recently hosted a panel discussion of industry leaders from Indigenous communities at the South Bruce Nuclear Exploration Forum. The Municipality also facilitated cultural awareness training for staff, council, and community members.

Earlier this week Council also passed a motion in support of hosting further cultural awareness training this Fall.

“The Municipality will continue to seek to facilitate events, educational opportunities and training for staff, Council and the community that celebrate and recognize Indigenous culture on our path to Reconciliation,” said Chief Administrative Officer Leanne Martin.

Community members are encouraged to take opportunities to further their own awareness and education. There are many resources to consult to gather more information, including the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and Saugeen Ojibway Nation Environment Office websites.

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