Every September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation invites us to remember. But reconciliation cannot be limited to a single day of remembrance. It also requires us to listen, learn and, above all, take action.
Today, across Canada, we honour residential school Survivors, the children who never returned home, and the families and communities that continue to live with the consequences of these colonial policies. This day is also an opportunity to reflect on our collective responsibility.
Eleven years ago, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada published its final report and issued 94 Calls to Action aimed at addressing the lasting impacts of residential schools and colonialism. More than a decade later, much work remains to be done.
When we talk about reconciliation, however, it can be easy to think that taking action is solely the responsibility of governments. Yet several of the Calls to Action directly or indirectly concern our workplaces, our organizations and the labour movement.
Reconciliation also happens in our workplaces
As a union, our primary responsibility is to defend workers’ rights. That also means asking ourselves whether everyone truly has the same opportunities and experiences the same level of respect and safety in the workplace.
Indigenous workers can still face racism, discrimination and systemic barriers to employment, advancement and inclusion. The labour movement can help break down these barriers. This can happen through collective bargaining, training and education, raising awareness, or simply through our ability to recognize discrimination and take action when it occurs.
In other words, reconciliation can also be built at the bargaining table. In practical terms, this can mean negotiating collective agreement provisions that promote equity in hiring, advancement and retention, as well as cultural safety and mentorship opportunities for Indigenous workers.
Understanding in order to act
Do we know which Indigenous Nations are connected to the lands where we live and work? Do we know the history of these lands? The treaties that may be connected to them? Do we truly understand what residential schools were and the impacts they continue to have today?
These are questions we can begin exploring individually. But they can also become opportunities for education and discussion within our unions and workplaces.
Solidarity does not end on September 30
Wearing orange today is an act of remembrance and solidarity. But perhaps the real challenge begins tomorrow. Reconciliation cannot be a conversation we open once a year only to close it again afterward.
True solidarity is not only about standing together when the rights of our own members are threatened. It is also about recognizing the injustices experienced by others and working collectively to push them back.
On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, let us take the time to remember.
Let us take the time to listen. Let us take the time to learn.
And, above all, let us ask ourselves what we can do in our workplaces, our unions and our communities to ensure that reconciliation continues well beyond September 30.