Marking National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Today, September 30, marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

This day provides an opportunity for First Nations, governments, communities, and individuals to join in the spirit of reconciliation – to engage in meaningful discussion, honour survivors of residential schools, and commit to a future where the healing of Indigenous peoples is a priority for all of us in Toronto/Tkaronto and Canada/Kanata.

My team and I stand in solidarity with all First Nation, Inuit, and Metis peoples. For us, this is a day to reflect on what we can do in our work, as well as in our personal lives, to engage in continuous and active learning and growth towards reconciliation. This includes supporting Indigenous-led solutions and proactively working to develop meaningful and collaborative relationships with Indigenous-led and Indigenous-serving organizations in Toronto/Tkaronto, as well as incorporating Truth and Reconciliation actions into our daily work.

To reinforce our commitment to truth and reconciliation, Ombudsman Toronto employees have been provided with an opportunity to nurture their overall awareness of and appreciation for Indigenous histories, knowledge, perspectives, and contributions, with a focus on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action, #57.

“We call upon federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal governments to provide education to public servants on the history of Aboriginal peoples, including the history and legacy of residential schools, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Treaties and Aboriginal rights, Indigenous law, and Aboriginal–Crown relations. This will require skills-based training in intercultural competency, conflict resolution, human rights, and anti-racism.”

Included in this work, we will be engaging in committed and ongoing discussion over the next month as to how we can continue to take action towards reconciliation in our work across all City services, housing, and policing in Toronto.  

We are grateful for those who put their trust in us and will continue to create space for Indigenous learnings, truth, and knowledge-sharing in pursuit of a Toronto/Tkaronto that is fair, just, and equitable for all.

Sincerely,
Kwame