The first National day for Truth and Reconciliation is coming up tomorrow.
While it is a day off for some, it should also be one of reflection, says the province's NDP leader Wab Kinew,
"The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which most students and teachers are probably familiar with as orange shirt day, is a chance for us to reflect and to learn about the history of residential schools and then to work together to make a Manitoba and a Canada where we live up to that saying where every child matters."
Mr. Kinew covered what he thinks is the next step in progressing towards reconciliation,
"We've all been moved this summer by the disclosures of the children who were found at former residential school sites. So I think some of the most urgent work that needs to happen is just to ensure that we are properly searching those former sites and then figuring out a way to commemorate and honour those children." Wab carried on, "Then going forward. I think we just want to make sure we have a health care system and a school system that works for all kids in Manitoba so that everyone, indigenous students, non-indigenous student's, people from all backgrounds, can reach their full potential."
Kinew noted what the day is all about,
"I'd hope that Manitobans do put on an orange shirt and as you go about your day and spend some time with your family, set aside a bit of time just to reflect on what it means and what we have learned this year so that hopefully we can all move forward together in a good way."
Wab says he encourages people from across the province to reflect on the importance of family, and at some point Thursday, think about the lost children who never made it home.
As for Kinew's plans for tomorrow, he says he will be spending it with family, going to a pow-wow in Winnipeg.
