The City of Castlegar and Regional District of Central Kootenay will close their offices, recreation facilities and waste and recycling facilities on Thursday, Sept. 30 to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
This new federal statutory holiday recognizes the tragic history and ongoing legacy of residential schools in our country, with the intention of encouraging all Canadians to reflect upon and honour the survivors, families and communities that continue to grieve.
“City facilities will be closed and we encourage the public and staff to mark the day with quiet reflection,” Mayor Kirk Duff said, suggesting residents don orange shirts.
“The discovery of over 1,400 grave sites in Cranbrook, Kamloops, Penelakut Island, Marieval, and Brandon this year alone illustrates the damaging and lasting impact the residential school system continues to have on First Nations people throughout our country,” said RDCK board chair Aimee Watson.
“I encourage our community to embrace the significance of this day and take the time to listen, learn and support the healing needed to address the trauma caused by the residential school system.”