September 30, 2025
WHEREAS, Indigenous Peoples have been the stewards of the land, water, air, animals, and each other since time immemorial;
WHEREAS; National Day for Truth and Reconciliation has been observed annually since 2021 (also known colloquially as Orange Shirt Day since 2013) to acknowledge that the harm from Residential Schools has negatively impacted Indigenous Peoples, communities, and all Canadians and caused trauma felt throughout generations;
WHEREAS; This day provides space to learn about and reflect on the injustices perpetrated against Indigenous Peoples, to honour their past, and remember the survivors of residential schools, as well as those who did not survive;
WHEREAS; Truth Telling, Decolonization, Reconciliation, and Indigenization present opportunities for all Canadians to engage in healing and to build a shared understanding of the historical impacts that shape the experiences of Indigenous Peoples;
WHEREAS; The acknowledgement and understanding of intentional and systemic efforts to assimilate Indigenous Peoples continues to impact Indigenous Peoples and their Nations across Turtle Island (North America). Truth and Reconciliation is an active and ongoing commitment from individuals, communities and government to understand painful truths of the past and promote collaborative healing for the future;
WHEREAS; Despite systemic discrimination, prejudice, and injustice, Indigenous Peoples continue to collectively and meaningfully impact society, and the land that we inhabit, which results in vibrant and resilient communities across Turtle Island, including Parkland County;
WHEREAS; Parkland County Council is committed to building meaningful relationships, built on mutual trust and respect, with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, and the surrounding communities, such as the Paul First Nation, Enoch Cree Nation, Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, Michel First Nation, Alexander First Nation, and the Lac Ste Anne Métis;
THEREFORE; Parkland County Council do hereby proclaim September 30th, 2025 as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Parkland County and encourage citizens to participate in public commemorations that honour past truths, and which promote reconciliation.