Comox Valley’s Local Governments to Observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

News release from the Comox Valley Regional District: 

The Town of Comox, City of Courtenay, Village of Cumberland and the Comox Valley Regional District together recognize the federal designated National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day. September 30 is a day for the Comox Valley community to learn about the history and traumatic legacy of residential schools in Canada, including seven schools on Vancouver Island.

In observance, the following facilities will be closed on September 30:

• City of Courtenay City Hall
• Comox Community Centre
• Comox Town Hall
• Comox Valley Aquatic Centre
• Comox Valley Regional District Office
• Comox Valley Sports Centre
• Comox Valley Waste Management Centre (landfill)
• Courtenay Recreation Lewis Centre
• Village of Cumberland Office
• Village of Cumberland Recreation Centre

Leading up to September 30, and throughout the year, the four local governments will provide staff with opportunities to learn about the harmful legacy of residential schools and encourage individual learning paths on what can be a very deeply personal journey. This includes exploring the diverse cultures and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. On this day, employees are also encouraged to participate in local activities that acknowledge the lives of the children who did not come home, and learn more about those organizations that assist residential school survivors and their families. 

For more information about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 calls to action, visit the Government of Canada’s website.

The City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, Village of Cumberland and the Comox Valley Regional District respectfully acknowledge the land on which they operate is on the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation, the traditional keepers of this land.

Every Child Matters design by Andy Everson, Northwest Coast Artist. As per the artist’s guidance for the use of this design, the City of Courtenay is making a contribution to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society.