Addressing the legacy of residential schools: Clarington moves toward reconciliation

Clarington, Ontario – As we mark National Indigenous Peoples Day, Clarington Council unanimously passed a motion directing staff to examine the calls to action identified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. Staff will look at the action items specifically directed at municipalities and all levels of government to provide Council with advice on the steps Clarington can take to redress the legacy of residential schools.

“We are deeply saddened at the discovery of multiple unmarked graves containing the remains of children at the site of several residential schools. We fear that over the next few months, we may unearth more horrors. We stand firmly with the Indigenous community across Canada. But words are not enough. Today, Clarington Council is taking some concrete steps to look at the calls to action identified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We know we must do better. We know we have to face the past to learn from it so that we never repeat it,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster.

The 94 calls to action identified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada focus on various themes “to advance the process of Canadian reconciliation,” including child welfare, education, health and justice for the Indigenous Community.

“As we mark National Indigenous Peoples Day, it’s time to start taking action. While we cannot erase the horrors of the residential school system and bring back the children who died due to abuse and neglect, we can work together with our Indigenous Community to move toward reconciliation. We must learn from our past and ensure that we create a future we can be proud of,” added Mayor Foster.

The motion to review the calls to action passed at the General Government Committee meeting and is set to be ratified on July 5 at the regular Council meeting. Clarington Staff will review the calls to action, consult with the Indigenous Community and Municipal Advisory Committees and bring back a recommendation report for Council consideration in early 2022.

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Media inquiries:
Municipality of Clarington
Basia Radomski
Communications Manager
905-623-3379 ext. 2214 or bradomski@clarington.net