Observing National Day for Truth & Reconciliation

September 29

TORONTO

AFP Greater Toronto will observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation tomorrow as a day of true reflection – reflecting on our privilege not to be part of the legacy of the residential school system.

Tomorrow also coincides with Orange Shirt Day in observance of the Indigenous children taken from their homes and forced to attend residential schools. We continue to be appalled by the many discoveries of mass graves near sites of several former residential schools, and though we can never truly fathom the pain, we recognize the trauma these discoveries have had, and wholeheartedly express our solidarity and support to the Indigenous community.

Reconciling with Indigenous communities is our shared responsibility as a sector. In keeping with our IDEA mandate, we will continue working towards promoting and supporting Indigenous initiatives and a culture of inclusivity, diversity, equity, and access for all, as a high priority goal.

We plan to use this day to further educate ourselves while reflecting on the horrendous history and ongoing legacy of residential schools in our country. We are committed to working together towards creating a better space for Indigenous peoples. Developing an awareness, understanding Indigenous history and the multi-generational effects of the residential school system, and acknowledging our privilege are essential components of the reconciliation process.

We hope you, too, will make September 30 a day of reflection on how you and your organization can contribute to the reconciliation process and together commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. To learn more about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, our Indigenous peoples’ cultures, stories, and experiences, start here.

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Amy Pawluk, CFRE

President, AFP Greater Toronto Board of Directors