OTTAWA – “On this first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation we remember and honour the children who were lost,” said Green Party Leader Annamie Paul, “not only those whose remains are now being recovered from unmarked burial sites at former residential schools, but also those who survived but never recovered from the trauma they experienced at those dreadful institutions.
“On this day and every day, we reaffirm our commitment to work with Indigenous Peoples across the country still struggling with the terrible legacy of the residential schools and pledge to redouble our efforts in support of true healing and reconciliation.”
Green Party Shadow Cabinet critic for reconciliation and Indigenous affairs, Adeana Young, said: “The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day of reflection to an anguished part of Canadian history when we honour Indian residential school survivors and children who never returned home.
“It is recognized that reconciliation cannot happen without the truth being told. Today is a clouded statutory holiday for a brighter future. May the truth be told, the healing begin and reconciliation evolve, for we are sharing space.”
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For more information or to arrange and interview:
John Chenery
1-613-562-4916 ext. 215
john.chenery@greenparty.ca