A decision not to recognize Truth and Reconciliation day on September 30th as a provincial holiday has left feelings of disappointment.
Federally regulated workplaces will be closed, but provincial services can remain open.
Mount Allison University Indigenous Affairs Coordinator Patty Musgrave-Quinn says this is shameful, “Being allies with all of the First Nations in this province and the people is only to their benefit. To totally disregard people in this way, that’s not appropriate.”
Musgrave-Quinn says there are a number of businesses and schools in the province who are choosing independently to keep their doors closed on that day, for time of reflection, “When you think about the survivors and the descendants, it is a pretty profound thing to be able to sit back and say, finally this country is recognizing that we need that time of reflection.”
The new federal statutory Truth and Reconciliation holiday received Royal Assent in early June after it was passed unanimously in the Senate.
The New Brunswick government made the announcement this week.
Premier Blaine Higgs encourages everyone to consider what they can do to advance reconciliation and help create a better, more inclusive province.
With files from Brad Perry
