Statement from the Mayor on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

For Immediate Release
September 30, 2021

The City of Greater Sudbury is proud to join communities across Canada to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation for the very first time. In response to Call to Action 80 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, September 30th is an opportunity to recognize and commemorate the tragic history and ongoing legacy of residential schools and to honour the survivors, their families, and communities.

The residential school system represents a dark time in Canada’s history where children have lost their family, language, culture, identity, and lives due to the brutal and forced methods of cultural assimilation. As a result, intergenerational trauma continues to impact Indigenous peoples today.

Moving forward, we must learn from Indigenous leaders, Knowledge Keepers and Elders, and reflect on our individual roles and responsibilities on the path toward reconciliation.

So today and every day, I strongly encourage residents to take time to seek additional knowledge or truth and to reflect on those so profoundly impacted by the residential school system. As a country, we must commit to strengthen our understanding, and to honour and amplify Indigenous voices as we work towards reconciliation together.

Learning resources can be found at https://www.greatersudbury.ca/special-days-and-events/national-day-for-truth-and-reconciliation/

Mayor Brian Bigger
City of Greater Sudbury

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Media contact:    
Hugh Kruzel
Office of the Mayor
City of Greater Sudbury
Phone: 705-674-4455 ext. 2521
E-mail: hugh.kruzel@greatersudbury.ca