Ponoka Mayor Bonnett: Reflecting on Canada Day
As July 1 approaches, there are mixed opinions on whether to celebrate Canada Day.
We’re facing difficult times in Canada with the heartbreaking findings of 751 unmarked graves near a former residential school site in Saskatchewan, and the remains of 215 children that were found on a former residential school site in British Columbia.
As we join our First Nations neighbours in grieving over these tragic findings, I would encourage us all to make this Canada Day a time for reflection and to educate ourselves about our country’s past, including the dark history surrounding residential schools.
Consider taking time to read about residential schools and the stories shared by survivors, and consider reading the 94 calls to action by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.