Recognizing National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Rotary Halifax Harbour’s Role in a Nova Scotia Context

Posted on Sep 30, 2024
On September 30, Canada observes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour the survivors of the residential school system, their families, and communities and to reflect on the ongoing journey toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. As Rotarians in Nova Scotia, this day holds deep meaning as it aligns with our core values of truth, fairness, and building goodwill and better friendships. It reminds us of our shared responsibility to support healing and understanding, especially in the context of the Mi'kmaq, the original inhabitants of this land, and the enduring impacts of colonialism.
 

What is Truth and Reconciliation?

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC), established in 2008, was a crucial step in acknowledging the legacy of residential schools. Through thousands of testimonies from survivors, the TRC shed light on the pain caused by forcibly removing Indigenous children from their families, language, and culture. The Commission issued 94 Calls to Action to address the historical and ongoing damage caused by these policies. These Calls to Action aim to foster reconciliation by promoting understanding, healing, and equitable relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

In Nova Scotia, the Shubenacadie Residential School, which operated from 1930 to 1967, represents a painful chapter in this history. Mi'kmaq and Wolastoqiyik children were taken to this school, where many endured abuse, neglect, and forced assimilation. The stories from survivors of Shubenacadie are powerful reminders of the resilience of Indigenous peoples and the ongoing need for healing.

Why is This Day Important?

Recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is about remembering the past and committing to a future based on respect, understanding, and partnership. It calls on us to acknowledge the truths of Canada's colonial history and the harm done to Indigenous communities while actively participating in building a better, more inclusive society.
 
For Nova Scotians, the day highlights the significance of the Peace and Friendship Treaties, which were meant to guide the relationship between the Mi’kmaq and the British Crown. While these treaties recognized Mi’kmaq sovereignty and land rights, they were often ignored by colonial governments.
 

Rotary Values, the United Nations, and Reconciliation

Rotarians are guided by our commitment to service, integrity, diversity, and building goodwill and better friendships. Rotary also has a long-standing relationship with the United Nations, playing a key role in its formation in 1945. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), adopted by the UN in 2007, is a vital international instrument that affirms the rights of Indigenous peoples, including their rights to self-determination, cultural preservation, and land.

Rotary’s connection to the UN further aligns us with the goals of truth and reconciliation. Canada committed to implementing UNDRIP through Bill C-15 in 2021, which is an important step towards addressing the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples. Supporting the principles of UNDRIP—including the recognition of Indigenous rights to culture, language, and governance—fits with Rotary’s focus on promoting peace, justice, and equity.

These values, along with Rotary’s Four-Way Test, guide our efforts toward reconciliation:

An orange gradient background with white text that reads: 'IS IT THE TRUTH? Acknowledging the truth about the history and impact of colonialism on Indigenous peoples is the first step toward reconciliation. This aligns with the core value of honesty in Rotary.' Below is the caption: 'Truth and Reconciliation: Rotary’s Call to Action.'
 
An orange gradient background with white text that reads: 'IS IT FAIR TO ALL CONCERNED? Reconciliation requires fairness and justice for Indigenous peoples, which includes addressing historical wrongs and creating equitable opportunities for the future.' Below is the caption: 'Truth and Reconciliation: Rotary’s Call to Action.'
 
An orange gradient background with white text that reads: 'WILL IT BUILD GOODWILL & BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? By working towards reconciliation, we build trust, understanding, and stronger relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.' Below is the caption: 'Truth and Reconciliation: Rotary’s Call to Action.'
 
An orange gradient background with white text that reads: 'WILL IT BE BENEFICIAL TO ALL CONCERNED? Reconciliation is beneficial to everyone, as it leads to a more just, inclusive, and harmonious society.' Below is the caption: 'Truth and Reconciliation: Rotary’s Call to Action.'
 
Additionally, in keeping with our land acknowledgment, we recognize that we are in Mi'kma'ki, the traditional and ancestral territory of the Mi’kmaq people. As treaty people, both settlers and Mi'kmaq alike, we all have responsibilities to honour these treaties and foster respect and understanding.

How to Observe the Day and Take Action Year-Round:

Here are several meaningful ways you can observe September 30 and continue engaging in reconciliation efforts throughout the year:
 
Wear an Orange Shirt: Orange Shirt Day, which coincides with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, symbolizes the survivors of residential schools. By wearing orange, you can help raise awareness and show solidarity with Indigenous peoples.
 
Attend Local Events: Many organizations host events to educate and honour survivors. In Halifax, check for activities at:
  • Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre often holds gatherings, education sessions, or ceremonies.
  • Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History have exhibits on Indigenous history and culture.
  • Dalhousie University and Saint Mary’s University frequently organize panels or educational events around Indigenous history, reconciliation, and the TRC Calls to Action.
Visit Memorials and Historical Sites: Visit the Shubenacadie Residential School Memorial or reflect at Peace and Friendship Park in downtown Halifax, which honours the Peace and Friendship Treaties signed with the Mi’kmaq. These can be powerful places to reflect on the history of the land and its people.
 
Participate in Learning Events: Look for webinars or workshops hosted by Indigenous organizations or local universities about the legacy of residential schools, treaty rights, and the TRC’s Calls to Action.
 

Actions You Can Take Year-Round

Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding the history and current realities faced by Indigenous peoples is essential to reconciliation. Consider reading books like 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act by Bob Joseph, or watching documentaries such as We Were Children, which tells the story of residential school survivors.
 
Support Indigenous Businesses and Artists: Help promote economic reconciliation by shopping from Indigenous-owned businesses.
 
Donate to Indigenous-Led Organizations
 
Engage in Reconciliation at Work and in Your Community: Encourage your workplace or community organizations to incorporate the TRC’s Calls to Action. Support initiatives that focus on Indigenous rights, reconciliation, and promoting peace and equity.
 
Attend Mi'kmaq Cultural Events: Participate in local cultural events such as Mi'kmaq Treaty Day on October 1, which celebrates Mi'kmaq culture and the Peace and Friendship Treaties.
 
Advocate for Treaty Rights and Justice: Get informed about issues impacting Indigenous communities in Nova Scotia, such as fisheries disputes or land claims, and support peaceful resolutions that honour Mi'kmaq rights. You can also engage by attending public events or writing to local representatives.