September 30, 2021, the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
A day of reflection and acknowledgement. Not a holiday. A day to set the tone for the next year and increasing awareness of Canada and BC’s brutal colonialist history and current practices. A day to make sure we never forget the tragedy of the thousands of unmarked graves of children discovered this year and the countless more children they represent and show support for survivors. A day to make sure we have open dialogue with each other and grow our understanding of the ongoing impact of residential schools and ongoing colonial practices on Indigenous peoples.
I would encourage all to take September 30 as time to really commit to reconciliation. Whether that starts by reading the calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation commission, looking at how current systems uphold colonialism and privilege, understanding the Indian Act and its intentions and effects, learning more about the horrors of colonial rule and residential schools and getting to know your neighbours. This starts with us.
Starting on September 30 commit to meaningful change right here in the Pemberton Valley. Not just on this one day, as a way of being. It is about more than just wearing orange and it’s definitely more than a holiday, it is yet another opportunity given to recognize systemic racism that exists in our country and in our community, to examine our past and consider our shared future, here on the incredible, traditional and unceded lands of the Líl̓wat Nation.