In observance of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to recognize and honour residential schools survivors and to raise awareness of the tragic legacy of residential schools, all Nunatsiavut Government offices will be closed on Friday, September 30.
Beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement are encouraged to wear something “orange” on September 30 in observance of the statutory holiday. It is also Orange Shirt Day – inspired by the story of First Nations author Phillis Webstad, who had her clothes, including her new orange shirt, stripped from her on her first day attending residential school when she was six-years old.
“National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time to reflect on what true reconciliation with Indigenous peoples really means. The orange shirt serves as a symbol of the tragedies experienced at residential schools – tragedies that should never be forgotten.”
The Nunatsiavut Government will hold National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events in each Labrador Inuit community, as well as in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Nunatsiavut Government buildings within the Labrador Inuit Settlement Area will also be lit up with orange lights to commemorate the day.