HSA Statement on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 30 is a day to honour the children who never came home and the survivors of residential schools, whose courage and resilience continue to guide us. Today, and all days, we acknowledge the pain carried by Indigenous families and communities, and we recognize that colonial violence is not just history — it is a living reality that continues to shape lives. On this day, we ask you not only to pause and reflect, but also to engage in active efforts toward Truth and Reconciliation.
HSA affirms its solidarity with Indigenous peoples in BC and around the world.
“We, as health science and community social service professionals, must reflect on our role in Reconciliation,” said HSA President Sarah Kooner.
“Truth and Reconciliation must be more than words; it must be a commitment to take part in the movement towards real change. This means listening to Indigenous voices, confronting uncomfortable truths, and taking responsibility for dismantling the systems that continue to harm. It means showing up — in our workplaces and in our communities — with humility, accountability, and action.”
“This day is an opportunity to take time to learn about the true history of this land, to reflect on our positionality and the ways we benefit from the land, to advocate for equity in healthcare and social services, to support Indigenous-led initiatives, and, above all, to remember that reconciliation is not a moment — it is a movement that we must work together in,” Kooner said.
Resources:
- Watch, listen, and read about the true history of Canada and its ongoing colonial relations with Indigenous peoples.
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: Reconciliation Through Education
- Canadian Labour Congress: Indigenous Rights and Justice Resource Centre
- United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
- Acknowledge the land you live on and its importance to local Indigenous communities
- September 30 is also Orange Shirt Day, a legacy of the St. Joseph Mission (SJM) Residential School (1891-1981) Commemoration Project and Reunion events that took place in Williams Lake, BC in May 2013. Learn more about the origin of Orange Shirt Day here.
- Support Indigenous businesses