National Day for Truth & Reconciliation

September 30, 2021 marks the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada. This day honours the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process. The impact of colonialism is not only a dark mark in our history, but injustices continue today. ECEBC encourages early childhood educators to wear orange to raise awareness of the very tragic legacy of residential schools, and to honour survivors, as well as their families and communities.

As a profession, whose collective core values, beliefs and Code of Ethics is respecting children and their families, we’re heartbroken by the discovery of many unmarked graves. As educators our role is vital and our responsibility is great. We can enact change that makes profound impacts.

ECEBC has committed to the Calls to Action by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in tangible and meaningful ways. With the support of many indigenous leaders and friends, we are revisiting our mission, programs and services. We are striving to do better.

ECEBC will be closed to observe Truth and Reconciliation Day. The ECEBC team has committed to this day with individual actions and to reflect meaningfully on our place in reconciliation and the responsibility to learn and advocate for Indigenous People and the truth. We hope you will join us as we take time to pause, to listen, to learn, to reflect and then act.

With humble gratitude,

The ECEBC team.