Building a future rooted in trust and respect on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“Today (September 30), on the fifth National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we gather as a nation to remember the children who never made it home, and to honour the survivors of the residential school system—along with their families and communities—who continue to carry the weight of these tragedies.

In Durham Region, we are committed to taking meaningful steps on the path toward reconciliation—building a region where Indigenous cultures are celebrated, and Indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing are valued in the decisions we make.

On July 30, the Region of Durham and the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation signed a Bilateral Agreement in ceremony. This agreement is more than a document. It is a commitment to the spirit of reconciliation, trust and collaboration on matters in support of both our communities.

We are also creating spaces of healing, reflection and gratitude. On September 26, the Region’s Indigenous Advocacy subcommittee hosted a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Awareness Walk. At this event, an Indigenous Reflection Garden was introduced at Regional Headquarters to provide a quiet, natural space that honours Indigenous cultures, histories and relationships with the land.

As we mark this day and beyond, I encourage everyone to take part in acts of reconciliation—big and small. Let us listen, learn and work together to address the injustices that still exist in our current systems.

Together, we can build a future founded on respect, guided by understanding, and strengthened through inclusion.

Today, the Every Child Matters flag will be flown at half-mast.”

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For media inquiries, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca.