2026 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

WHEREAS the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released its final report on June 2, 2015, which included 94 Calls to Action to redress the legacy of residential schools and advance the process of Canadian reconciliation; and

WHEREAS the discoveries of unmarked graves and potential burial sites across Canada have led to increased calls for all levels of government to address the recommendations in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action; and

WHEREAS all Canadians and all orders of government have a role to play in reconciliation; and

WHEREAS Recommendation #80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission called upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to establish, as a statutory holiday, a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process; and

WHEREAS the Federal Government designated September 30th as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and a statutory holiday;

NOW THEREFORE Council of the Municipality of Greenstone hereby proclaims and commits to recognizing September 30th, 2026, as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by sharing the stories of residential school survivors, their families, and communities.

The Municipality of Greenstone will raise the Every Child Matters flag in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. As we remember and reflect, we honour the survivors of residential schools and commemorate the Indigenous children who never returned home. This day provides an opportunity for our community to acknowledge this painful history, listen, learn, and continue the work of reconciliation.

The flag has been raised at the Greenstone Administration Office in accordance with the Municipality of Greenstone's Flag Policy. The policy provides guidance on the display of flags at municipal facilities to ensure recognition is given in a respectful, consistent, and inclusive manner.