Press Release - National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 24, 2021

National Day of Truth & Reconciliation

District of Kent will support and follow the new statutory legislation for the Federal Holiday

Agassiz, British Columbia – The District of Kent will close Municipal Hall on Thursday, September 30 in recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Earlier this year, the federal government announced September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour survivors, their families, and communities, and commemorate and reflect on the tragic events and ongoing legacy of residential schools.

To acknowledge the loss of life and identity and to honour the survivors, their families, and communities, Municipal Hall will be illuminated orange from September 27 to 30.

In the spirit of Lets’emot, of one mind, one heart, the District of Kent is committed to long term relationships with local Indigenous communities and values the respect, trust, and cooperation of building partnerships together to benefit all our communities.

“It’s everyday people doing everyday acts of kindness who move our communities forward. We can all do our part to learn our history of residential schools by listening to the truths being told by survivors. Truly listening and learning is how we will strengthen our relationships with Indigenous peoples. These everyday acts may seem small, but when you put them together, they can make a large impact.”

Residents who are looking to deepen their understanding of residential schools can visit the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s website, visit the Agassiz Library for resource recommendations of those who experienced residential schools, stop by the Agassiz – Harrison Museum and Visitor Information Centre to see the permanent Indigenous Peoples displays and interpretive material that touches on residential schools. Drop by the Community Recreation and Cultural Centre between 8:00 am to 1:00 pm to view displays and take part in growing our “Heart Garden”.

September 30 has been observed, since 2013, as Orange Shirt Day. Please continue to wear your orange shirts on this day to recognize and raise awareness of the history and legacies of the residential school system in Canada.

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Mayor Sylvia Pranger

District of Kent

604-796-2235