Earlier in the summer, the federal government announced a new and significant holiday to take place on September 30th to honour the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. As we prepare to commemorate the inaugural National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we encourage Canadians to reflect and acknowledge the past and present injustices faced by Indigenous peoples across the country.
For us at CCUA, observing the holiday provides an opportunity for additional learning. Our offices will be closed, but our staff and members have been invited to attend an educational webinar led by Waneek Horn-Miller, an inspiring Olympic athlete, activist and speaker on Indigenous health and reconciliation. In addition to the session, CCUA has also required all staff to register for the mandatory training course “Reconciliation Education Indigenous Awareness,” to provide further insight into the topic.
Across the country, Canada’s credit unions are also preparing to commemorate the day in a meaningful way. Below are just a few examples of how our system peers will be honouring National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Assiniboine Credit Union
Assiniboine Credit Union has a long-standing history of supporting Indigenous communities and reconciliation. The credit union will be closed on September 30th to observe the holiday and encourage employees to further engage in their own personal journeys. Assiniboine also posted extensive resources on their website to provide additional information for members (notably a blogpost on the importance of Orange Shirt Day available here, and a video highlighting Assiniboine’s journey as an Accord signatory here.)
Coastal Community Credit Union
In the lead up to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Coastal Community Credit Union announced a donation of $10,000 to HeroWork Victoria, in support of their renovation project with the Indigenous Perspectives Society (IPS). IPS’ mission is to foster a deeper understanding of Indigenous perspectives, cultural differences, and the need for self-determination. HeroWork’s renovation of IPS’ building will help the Society deliver their important mandate of deepening reconciliation. Read more on the donation here.
First Credit Union
In addition to closing their branches on September 30th, First Credit Union will also recognize National Day for Truth & Reconciliation by:
- Launching a Truth & Reconciliation hub on their intranet with resources that employees can access to learn more about the history of residential schools and Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
- Inviting all employees to register and complete the on-demand 3-hour course, “4 Seasons of Reconciliation” through CCUA Campus.
- Hosting virtual roundtable discussion forums where employees can safely share reflections from their learning throughout the month.
- Provide employees with the opportunity to order “Every Child Matters” shirts and those who have opted in will be encouraged to wear their orange shirts the week of September 30th.
- Inviting employees to participate in events or ceremonies on September 30th, in each of their communities.
- Hosting a book club for all interested employees, which will start in October. The focus of the book club will be on the impact of colonization and the residential school system on Canada’s Indigenous peoples.
Integris Credit Union
Integris Credit Union will be closing their branches midday and provide Indigenous training to its staff. The training will focus on the following:
- Why the conversation around Indigenous communities and reconciliation is important.
- Learning about which traditional territory the credit union’s branches are on.
- Terminology to use and avoid when speaking to or about Indigenous peoples or communities.
In addition, Integris will also welcome individuals from local Indigenous communities to share what September 30th means to them, as well as feature a Territory welcome and blessing from an Elder.
Kindred Credit Union
Kindred Credit Union announced they will be closed on September 30th in observance of the day and promoted resources and information on their website to help members recognize the day and be more informed. Read more here.
Libro Credit Union
Ahead of National Day for Truth & Reconciliation, Libro Credit Union shared an informative blog post highlighting local Indigenous-owned small businesses. Learn more about the businesses and how to support them here. The credit union also recognizes Orange Shirt Day which also falls on September 30th.
