NDP Statement on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Canada’s NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh made the following statement:

“Today, Canadians across the country honour the children who never returned home, Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. We also reflect on our collective history of colonialism and genocide and how it continues to impact Survivors, families and communities today. As unmarked graves continue to be uncovered, today is a reminder of the harm caused and the work to be done.

This day of reflection would not have been possible without the advocacy of First Nations, Inuit and Metis Leaders, and we commend their commitment to fighting for a better future for all Indigenous people. Governments at every level need to take concrete steps toward reconciliation by listening, learning, and working with Indigenous leaders and communities to advance justice for Indigenous people.

Despite tireless advocacy, the federal government is still denying Indigenous communities much of the funding they have requested for discovering the remains at former residential schools and healing programs. Across the country, there are still 32 long-term boil water advisories in effect in 28 communities, and at least 45 short-term drinking waters advisories in Indigenous communities. More troubling, as Indigenous women and girls face an ongoing genocide, the government has failed to build new shelters to help Indigenous women and gender-diverse people and children flee violence.

New Democrats know more action is needed to advance reconciliation. We will continue to work to harmonize Canada’s laws with UNDRIP and to implement all Calls to Action and Calls for Justice. We are committed to helping survivors heal, lifting all boil water advisories, and ensuring Indigenous women, girls and gender-diverse people can thrive in safe environments. Today, on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, New Democrats reaffirm our commitment to advance reconciliation in true and equal partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis people."