Premiers affirm commitment to action in response to Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report

ST. JOHN'S, July 16, 2015 /CNW/ - Canada's Premiers affirm their provinces' and territories' commitment to ongoing reconciliation between the Indigenous peoples of Canada and non-Indigenous Canadians.

Reconciliation should be grounded in mutual respect, a commitment to healing and acknowledgement of the history of Canada because that history has left a painful legacy.

Indigenous peoples have a rich and vibrant history, and understanding that history is critical for all Canadians.

Provinces and territories have an important role to play in ensuring today's and tomorrow's citizens are aware of the residential school history and how it continues to influence the relationship between Indigenous peoples within Canada and non-Indigenous Canadians. 

Raising awareness of the residential school legacy can occur through the curriculums taught in our schools, through mutual respect for Treaties and through a commitment to look at government decisions through a lens that promotes respect and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. 

Canada's Premiers bear witness to the stories and strength of survivors and the necessary and difficult process of healing.  Premiers applaud the role that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) has played in facilitating this process of reconciliation.

Premiers will continue to show leadership in ongoing reconciliation efforts and will take action in each of their provinces and territories in relation to the matters in the TRC summary report.

SOURCE Canada's Premiers

Heather MacLean, Director of Communications, Office of the Premier, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, Cell: [phone], [email protected]