Beginning this year, the Township of Ramara will officially observe September 30 as a statutory holiday in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The decision was approved by Ramara Council at its September 22 meeting to acknowledge the legacy of residential schools and support the ongoing journey of reconciliation.
“The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an important day to pause, learn, and reflect,” said Mayor Basil Clarke. “As a community, we honour survivors, their families, and the children who never came home from residential schools. Alongside our neighbours, the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, we are reminded of the importance of respect and the ongoing journey of reconciliation.”
What Residents Need to Know
- Township Administration Office, Ramara Centre, and Ramara Township Public Library will be closed on Sept. 30.
- Flags at Township facilities will be lowered to half-staff at the end of day Sept. 29 and raised again on Oct. 1.
- Residents, staff, and Council are encouraged to wear orange and participate in local gatherings to honour the day.
If Sept. 30 falls on a weekend, the holiday will be observed on the nearest weekday—Friday if it lands on a Saturday, and Monday if it lands on a Sunday.
Why Sept. 30 Matters
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was proclaimed by the Government of Canada in 2021. It coincides with Orange Shirt Day, a grassroots initiative that began to honour Indigenous children who were taken from their families and placed in residential schools.
The day serves as a national call to reflect on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and to recognize the intergenerational impact of the residential school system on survivors, families, and communities.
For resources and ways to participate, visit the Government of Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation page.
