Premier RJ Simpson issued the following statement on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation:
“Today marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which honors the children of Dene, Métis, Inuit and other First Nations peoples who never returned from residential schools, as well as the survivors, their families and their communities. This day commemorates a painful chapter in our history that must never be forgotten and from which we must continue to learn lessons.
In the Northwest Territories (NWT), where half the population is Indigenous, the heartbreaking legacy of residential schools is keenly felt, both for those who survived the trauma and for others affected by the experiences of the residential schools. people around them. The government is committed, as part of its mandate, to combating the effects of this trauma and supporting residents and communities in their healing journey.
In collaboration with Indigenous governments, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is implementing relevant calls to action territory-wide, among those launched by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. The GNWT also works with Indigenous governments through cooperative agreements and initiatives such as the NWT Leadership Council and Housing Forum to ensure that investments, programs and policies can meet the unique needs of Indigenous residents.
It is in this same spirit of collaboration that the Executive Council will participate, alongside members of the Council of Leaders, in meetings next week with federal government ministers to defend the interests of NWT residents. This is how we implement reconciliation efforts and solidify our commitment to building a prosperous future, so that Indigenous residents and communities can one day thrive.
On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, let us honor the memory of the children who never returned from residential schools and salute the survivors and their families. I encourage all residents to attend community events honoring survivors, amplifying Indigenous voices, and thinking about ways everyone can contribute to reconciliation efforts in their own community.
I am aware of the immense pain and deep trauma that many residents continue to experience. Your stories, your history and your future have value. I hope you find the space – whether in solitude or with your loved ones and community – to commemorate this day in the way you need, and that you can heal in your own way. Together, we will continue to move forward on the path to reconciliation, recognizing that we must do so together.
