National Day For Truth And Reconciliation A Holiday For County Staff

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The County of Essex will commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th and is making it a paid holiday for staff.

“We believe strongly in the importance of this day to honour First Nations, Inuit and Metis survivors, their families and communities,” said Director of Human Resources Kristie Cronin. “By declaring this day a holiday for County of Essex employees, we demonstrate a resounding commitment to the reconciliation process.”

Giving employees the day off allows them to attend community events commemorating the holiday, which they are encouraged to do Cronin said.

“The need has never been greater to listen and learn about our history”

The County will be providing employees with educational resources related to the history of residential schools and publicizing community events marking the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Federal legislation was passed earlier this year to commemorate the history and legacy of residential schools on September 30th, fulfilling one of the recommendations issued in 2015 by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Ontario has opted not to make the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation a provincial statutory holiday.