Ontario’s only First Nation representative at Queen’s Park plans to introduce a proposed bill, in his own Indigenous language, to have the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation declared a paid provincial holiday.
The day is a statutory holiday for federally regulated workers and employees in some other provinces.
New Democrat deputy leader Sol Mamakwa says he wants Ontario to have the holiday, too, saying it’s important for Ontarians to have the day off to reflect, mourn and learn about the history of residential schools.
Mamakwa, himself is a survivor of a residential school, and plans to introduce the legislation in November.
Written by: The Canadian Press
The Residential School Survivors and Family Hotline is 1-866-925-4419.
The First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line is 1-855-242-3310.
The Native Youth Crisis Hotline is 1-877-209-1266.
