National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30, 2023

Ottawa ON- 

“Reconciliation is a way of life, continuous, with no end date. It is learning from our lived experiences, understanding one another, and standing side-by-side with grace and humility to support Indigenous children, families, and communities.” - Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary May Simon, Governor General of Canada 

On September 30, Canada will mark the third observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation provides a pivotal opportunity to recognize the injustices inflicted by the residential school policy in Canada, acknowledge and reflect on the enduring impacts, and commit to taking meaningful actions daily on the path to reconciliation. 

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a direct response to Call to Action #80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, which calls upon the federal government, in collaboration with Indigenous peoples, to establish a federal statutory day of commemoration. This federal day of reflection builds on the momentum of Orange Shirt Day, a grassroots Indigenous movement inspired by the experiences of Phyllis Webstad of the Stswecam’ Xgat’tem First Nation. The story of her new orange shirt being taken away on her first day at St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School has become a powerful symbol of resilience in response to injustice.  

Children’s Healthcare Canada and the Pediatric Chairs of Canada recognize and acknowledge the intergenerational harm that residential schools and other oppressive policies have caused to Indigenous children, their families, and communities. As dedicated professionals entrusted with the education and training of pediatricians and healthcare providers, we firmly believe that it is our collective responsibility to incorporate Truth and Reconciliation into our teachings. Alongside our dedicated members, we embrace this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as an opportunity for profound reflection and meaningful action.  

We are committed to nurturing an environment of reconciliation and decolonization within our organizations and healthcare institutions, one that is rooted in positivity and hope. We continue to support Jordan’s Principle, a child-first legal approach that addresses the unmet needs of First Nations children and provides them with timely access to culturally relevant services and supports. We remain steadfast in our mission to promote health equity for children, youth, and families, and we pledge to prioritize and advance these vital efforts with unwavering dedication.  

We stand in solidarity with Indigenous Peoples, reaffirm our support for providing access to high-quality healthcare for every child in Canada, and recognize our shared responsibility for continued healing and working in partnership with Indigenous peoples on the path forward.