True reconciliation requires meaningful action, not just symbolic gestures

On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Canada’s unions continue to urge the federal government to take concrete, meaningful action toward reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, going beyond symbolic gestures.

Today, we remember all the Indigenous children taken from their families and communities and sent to residential schools. We honour the lives of those who never returned home, and those who survived.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day of remembrance and action. We are reminded of the ongoing responsibility we have as workers, union members, and allies to confront the historical injustices and ongoing inequities faced by Indigenous communities.

“Truth and reconciliation are not abstract ideas; they are tangible and achievable, but they require sustained commitment and action toward real change. This is why we are calling on Canadians from coast to coast to coast to take this day to learn more about and reflect on Canada’s colonial history and the enduring impact of the residential school system on Indigenous communities and to take action in their communities, workplaces and unions toward reconciliation and justice,” said Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC).

Within the labour movement, this means we must continue to be proactive in supporting Indigenous workers in all sectors. This includes fighting for fair wages, safe working conditions, and culturally appropriate policies that reflect the unique needs of Indigenous workers, as well as advocating for greater Indigenous representation and leadership within our own structures.

We must keep pressuring government and advocating for broader policy change, including: safe drinking water; justice for missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit people; and, implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action 71-76, Missing Children and Burial Information, to properly address the devastating legacy of residential schools.

We need to keep working to dismantle systemic anti-Indigenous racism and discrimination, and address unequal access to employment opportunities experienced by Indigenous workers. We must also continue to place an emphasis on educating our leaders and members about the history and legacy of colonization, and actively create spaces for dialogue and learning, and opportunities for individual and collective action.

“Reconciliation is a continuous journey – one that requires accountability and consistent action. On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we urge all non-Indigenous people to consider their role in the fight for justice for Indigenous communities and encourage workers to ask themselves how they can contribute to reconciliation within their workplaces, unions, and communities. Whether it’s deepening their own understanding of Indigenous history, spearheading and supporting policies that foster equity at work, or standing in solidarity with Indigenous co-workers, every action makes a difference, not just today, but every day,” said Lily Chang, CLC Secretary-Treasurer.

Want to take action? Check out our resources:

Actions workers can take on September 30 and beyond

Actions unions can take on September 30 and beyond

You can also find more resources in our Indigenous Rights and Justice Resource Centre, where you can send a letter to your MP, letting them know you want to see concrete action for justice for Indigenous communities.