NU will recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

In June of this year, the federal government legislated September 30, 2021, as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. As President, I am declaring that Nipissing University will recognize this day as a holiday, and as such, remote and in-person classes will be cancelled, and employees will not be required to report to work.   

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an opportunity to recognize and commemorate the legacy of residential schools, as proposed by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada in 2015, which under Action 80 called upon the federal government, in collaboration with Indigenous peoples, to establish a statutory holiday that honours Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. 

Nipissing University community members are encouraged to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation through personal reflection, education and awareness, and participation in events such as Orange Shirt Day, a day to honour Indigenous children who were sent away to residential school in Canada. Orange Shirt Day challenges Canadians to witness and honour the stories of Survivors and their families, and to commit to meaningful discussion and the ongoing process of reconciliation. 

A variety of events and programs will be available for community members to attend and further information, including registration details, will follow next week.  

Dr. Kevin Wamsley
President & Vice-Chancellor