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The County of Essex will commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and is making it a paid holiday for staff.
The addition of the Sept. 30 federal statutory holiday was approved by County Council on Wednesday night.
“We believe strongly in the importance of this day to honour First Nations, Inuit and Metis survivors, their families and communities,” said Director of Human Resources Kristie Cronin. “By declaring this day a holiday for County of Essex employees, we demonstrate a resounding commitment to the reconciliation process.”
The County is showing leadership in the community by recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, she said. Giving employees the day off allows them to attend community events commemorating the holiday, which they are encouraged to do.
“The need has never been greater to listen and learn about our history,” Cronin said.
The County will be providing employees with educational resources related to the history of residential schools and publicizing community events marking the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Federal legislation was passed earlier this year to commemorate the history and legacy of residential schools on Sept. 30 – fulfilling one of the recommendations issued in 2015 by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
The commission documented stories of neglect and abuse of thousands of Indigenous children who attended residential schools across Canada. Revelations earlier this year that unmarked graves have been discovered at several school locations again put a spotlight on the damage done to Indigenous children and their communities.
Ontario has opted not to make the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation a provincial statutory holiday.
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