Sylvan Lake makes Sept. 30 paid day off for Truth and Reconciliation

“We’re looking to do what we can to support truth and reconciliation, and we think this gives staff time to reflect on the day’s significance, or take part in community or school-based events,” says Mayor Megan Hanson. “The cost, which is $6,000 for part-time staff who may still work that day, is minimal versus what the payoff is.”

Call to Action number 80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) calls upon the federal government to establish a statutory holiday to honour survivors and recognize the lasting impact of residential schools.

The federal government did this in 2021, however it was still up to provinces to implement it locally.

“We don’t have all of our plans for Sept. 30 solidified, but last year we unveiled a waterfront mural called ‘Let them play,’ a reflection on all the children who didn’t have the opportunity to play,” says Hanson. “We’ve done several things in our policies to ensure the Indigenous history of the area is recognized, including street and space namings, ensuring staff and committee members are educated, and talking about the legacy of residential schools.”

Last week, council approved the naming of a street in the Waterford Station neighbourhood. A street there will be called Seneca Way, in reference to the Seneca people, an Iroquoian nation from the Lake Ontario area.

“In all of our future street namings, we’ve asked administration that Indigenous names at least be a consideration,” says Hanson, noting the Seneca Way proposal came from the developer working on the Waterford Station area.

“No matter what’s happening here on September 30, I’ll be bringing my kids. It’s really important we learn, grow and have these discussions as a family.”

The Town notes other municipalities, such as Red Deer, Rocky Mountain House, Airdrie and Blackfalds are also recognizing Sept. 30 with a paid holiday, while many others are in the process of finalizing plans.

It also notes Town staff have integrated land acknowledgements into email signatures, and to start formal ceremonies and events. It’s also developed culturally appropriate program delivery of education around Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, offered through FCSS, and the Town’s Recreation, Culture and Tourism department.

“In developing strategy for 2021-2025, council has indicated their desire to seek ways to act upon the Calls to Action identified in the National Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s report,” a council agenda report states.

by Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Sylvan Lake makes Sept. 30 paid day off for Truth and Reconciliation

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