Burlington to recognize National Day of Truth and Reconciliation with municipal holiday

Next week, the City of Burlington will be recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a holiday for its municipal employees.

“I just want to make Sept . 30 a holiday for cities,” said Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward in an interview with inHalton.com.

“More than a holiday but opportunity and time…to read the history of our relationships with Indigenous residents,” she says.

City Manager Tim Commisso says the city is doing its part to help educate municipal employees.

“The City’s internal Indigenous Relations Committee has compiled resources, events and activities to assist City employees in reflecting on the meaning of Sept. 30. Employees are encouraged to reflect and participate in a community event that pays respect to the legacy of intergenerational trauma that remains today in Indigenous communities, families, and individuals.”

Some city services will be disrupted due to the new holiday, including court proceedings. The City will also close the administrative office for the roads, parks, and forestry department.

The City is encouraging residents to use the day to learn about the history of Canada and the treatment of the people who lived here before.

More information on the holiday can be found on the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation’s website.