The District of Sparwood will be observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, recognizing this date as a permanent statutory holiday for all District employees.

While this day is not a provincially recognized statutory holiday, the Collective Agreement (CUPE Local 2698), governing district workers outlines that all federal statutory holidays will be observed within the organization.

Sparwood Mayor David Wilks explains his request for employees and residents to engage in meaningful reflection and opportunities to honor this important day.

“September 30 carries significant meaning. I encourage everyone to use this time to learn more about Truth and Reconciliation. This statutory holiday is not intended to be one of celebration, but rather one of somber reflection of the tragic history and ongoing impacts faced by Indigenous peoples. There are many resources that we will share with our staff, and the community to learn and understand the truth of our past, how to support healing, and how we can continuously work to advance reconciliation.”

September 30 has been recently known as Orange Shirt Day, a day which recalls the experience of residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad, who was stripped of her orange shirt on her first day of being placed into residential school.

“Whether it be through personal reflection, education, or participating in Orange Shirt Day, it is the hope of myself and Council that we all do our part to honor the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation,” said Mayor Wilks.

More information can be found on the history and legacy of residential schools and their survivors on the District of Sparwood website and Facebook page.

Above photo: Sparwood path. Photo Credit: District of Sparwood

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