City of Medicine Hat to formally observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

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Medicine Hat – The City of Medicine Hat will formally observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a statutory holiday on September 30. The decision was made after Bill C-5, an Act to amend the Bills of Exchange Act, the Interpretation Act and the Canada Labour Code (National Day for Truth and Reconciliation) (the “Act”), received royal assent in the House of Commons, introducing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a new paid general holiday for federally regulated employees.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was introduced to address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call for Action to honour survivors of residential schools and their families and communities, and to ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.

“It’s important for all of us to take the time to learn more about our shared history of residential schools and reflect on how we can build bridges with Indigenous People,” says Mayor Ted Clugston. “Observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation signals the City of Medicine Hat’s intent to more formally demonstrate our commitment.”

At the August 16, 2021 meeting, City Council approved a recommendation to have the Community Vibrancy Advisory board create an ad hoc committee that would develop a plan to address the spirit and intent of the TRC report and Calls to Action. The plan is expected by March 31, 2022 and will be brought forward to Council for consideration.

The City of Medicine Hat encourages employees and residents to acknowledge the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by learning about our shared Indigenous history and the painful legacy and impacts of the residential school system.

The Saamis Tepee will be lit orange on September 30 to bring awareness to this important day.

The public is advised of the following impacts to City of Medicine Hat services on September 30.

  • City Hall will be closed to the public, with the exception of election workers previously scheduled for training.
  • Co-op Place, Esplanade Arts and Heritage Centre, and other City facilities will be closed to the public.
  • Transit will operate with regular service hours.
  • Solid waste collection will continue as usual to maintain the 2021 collection schedule and the landfill will remain open.
  • Big Marble Go Centre will be open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. All bookings previously scheduled outside of these hours will be honored with user groups.

To learn more about our Indigenous history, as well as the recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, please visit https://nctr.ca/.

 

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For media inquiries, please contact:

 media@medicinehat.ca