AU to close Sept. 30 for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Faculty / In Our Communities / Indigenous / Learners

| August 24, 2021

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The Government of Canada has declared Sept. 30 the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

This day has been chosen to recognize and commemorate the tragic history of residential schools and their legacy, and to honour the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s call to action No. 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.”

Sept. 30 was chosen as it coincides with Orange Shirt Day, a day intended to create a meaningful discussion about the effects of residential schools and the legacy they have left behind. The story behind the significance of the colour orange is attributed to Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, and has come to symbolize her loss: family, self-esteem, culture, and all things Indigenous to her. We encourage our community members to show their support and wear orange on that day.

“Athabasca University supports and respects our Indigenous learners, alumni, team members, and community members and will be closed on Sept. 30 to allow time for reflection and commemoration of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.”
– Deborah Meyers, AU president (interim)

AU will close on Sept. 30

Athabasca University supports and respects our Indigenous learners, alumni, team members, and community members and will be closed on Sept. 30 to allow time for reflection and commemoration of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. I urge all members of our community to remember and reflect on the lives lost to the residential school system and to acknowledge the impact on the survivors and their families for generations.

I ask that you join me in taking time to learn about Indigenous peoples and the significance of this day. I want to thank our Nukskahtowin team of Elder Maria Campbell, Priscilla Campeau, and Ivy Lalonde for compiling teachings and resources to support our day of reflection.