September 30th has been declared the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada.  This was done through Bill C-5 which received Royal Assent in June.  CUPE will be honouring this day and all employees will be given the day off.  Correspondence from CUPE on this is available on CUPE Connect which confirms this day has been added to the list of Statutory Holidays in our Collective Agreement.  

COPE Local 491 appreciates the importance of the day and encourages members to use the day in the spirit in which it was created in response to #80 in the Calls to Action document from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.  The Call to Action reads: 

• 80. We call upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to establish, as a statutory holiday, a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.  

You can learn more about the Calls to Action and the Commission by visiting their website at: www.trc.ca 

Many events have been scheduled to honour the day and to move the reconciliation process, the learning and healing process forward.  You can find more information on these events through Facebook, Evites, TRC website, various Friendship Centres and education bodies and many other venues.  If you need assistance locating events or online forums please reach out.  

In Solidarity
COPE Local 491 Executive