The federal government recently passed legislation declaring September 30th the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – a federal, general holiday. As work continues across Canada to discover and honour the bodies of Indigenous children who did not survive residential schools, this day holds the significance of bearing witness to the stories of survivors and joining the call to demand change.
This is a statutory holiday for federally-regulated employers or those who have language in their CBA that references federally-imposed holidays. It hasn’t been determined if the provinces will adapt this day into provincial regulations, so until that time employers are not required to participate in this new holiday.
Regardless, our negotiators will be working to incorporate this day into collective agreements as they come up for bargaining. If you’re not sure whether this holiday applies to you, please reach out to your Union Representative.