Federally regulated workplaces will now be closed on September 30th, as the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is recognized.
The new federal statutory holiday received Royal Assent on June 3rd after it was passed unanimously in the Senate.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, coincides with Orange Shirt Day, which was established in 2013 to honour Indigenous children who were forced to leave their families to attend residential schools.
A Government of Canada news release states the day provides an opportunity to recognize and commemorate the legacy of residential schools.
This will be a day of quiet reflection or participation in a community event.
The first statutory National Day for Truth and Reconciliation will be recognized on September 30th, 2021