September 30th marks the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day honours the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. As a country, we reflect upon the tragic history of injustice and the ongoing impact of the Indian residential school system.

The legislation to enact this day was passed in June with a commitment from the Government of Canada. The federal statutory holiday fulfills the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call-to-Action #80.

Our CARHA Hockey team will respectively observe this important day and take time for reflection, education, and active listening. In our effort to acknowledge the healing journey of the Indigenous people, each staff member is encouraged to participate in their own way. We share some of the selections to help bring awareness:

  • Enrolling in the University of Alberta’s Indigenous Canada Course
  • Reading the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action
  • Reviewing Spirit Bear's Guide to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action
  • Viewing the live virtual opening address by Algonquin Knowledge Keeper Monique Manatch and a land acknowledgment by OCDSB Director of Education Camille Williams-Taylor
  • Participating in the ‘We Are Still Here’ talk 


We hope that you will also have time to pause and reflect in your own way and make sure reconciliation continues beyond September 30th.

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