Truth and Reconciliation Day Recognized in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia will annually recognize Sept. 30 as Truth and Reconciliation Day beginning in 2021.

Provincial government offices, public schools and regulated child care will be closed. Businesses will have the choice, as they do on other occasions, to remain open.

“We are taking this step to recognize the importance of honouring First Nations, Inuit and Métis residential school survivors and their families and communities,” said Premier Tim Houston. “We encourage all Nova Scotians, whether you are working or in school, to make time on September 30 for important discussions about Canada’s history of residential schools.”

Truth and Reconciliation Day will acknowledge the legacy of residential schools and the role it holds in the reconciliation process.

Quotes:

“By taking time to reflect, we have an opportunity to consider how each of us can help make Nova Scotia more inclusive and equitable for everyone who calls this province home. I sincerely hope we all take the time to reflect on this important day.”

– Jill Balser, Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration

“We share the grief and pain of L’nu in Nova Scotia and across the country, and we know that we must listen, learn and walk the path of healing and reconciliation together.”

– Karla MacFarlane, Minister of L’nu Affairs

Quick Facts:

• the federal government recently passed legislation creating a federal statutory holiday called the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Additional Resources:

Federal news release on the introduction of the legislation: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/news/2020/09/government-of-canada-introduces-legislation-to-establish-national-day-for-truth-and-reconciliation.html

Provincial Court of Nova Scotia news release on recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: https://www.courts.ns.ca/documents/NSPC_Day_for_Truth_and_Reconciliation_Sept_1_2021.pdf