NDP Statement for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2023

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

“Today, Canadians are pausing to reflect on the country’s painful history and the ongoing impacts of residential schools. On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, New Democrats honour the children who never returned home, Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities, and reaffirm our belief that every child matters.

While communities continue the search for children who were lost, the consequences of Canada’s actions are still being experienced today: First Nations, Inuit and Métis children are more likely to be in foster care, experience higher rates of poverty and food insecurity, and continue to be the victims of systemic racism. There are still 28 long-term boil water advisories in effect in 26 communities, and progress on implementing the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples continues to be slow. Sadly, Indigenous women and girls go missing and murdered at a record rate, and governments are too slow to respond. We need to listen to their calls to end this ongoing genocide.

Canadians should use today as an opportunity to learn about the history and injustices of the residential school system, and we recognize the courage and hard work that Elders, Survivors and other Indigenous leaders are doing to share their stories and experiences. Only by confronting this history can we commit to a future where all children can prosper.

First Nations, Inuit and Métis children and families deserve so much better from all levels of government, and it’s incumbent on all of us to keep fighting for healing and justice. Today, on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, New Democrats reaffirm our dedication to improving the lives and well-being of all Indigenous children and families in equal partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples."