ARNM Recognizes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day — a day to honour Residential School Survivors, their families and communities, and to remember the children who never returned home.

ARNM recognizes the lasting and intergenerational impacts of the Residential School system and the ongoing impacts of colonialism on First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. We recognize that truth and reconciliation require more than reflection on one day. They call for continued learning, listening and action.

As a professional nursing association, we acknowledge the role that nurses and the health-care system have played in systems that have caused harm and discrimination toward Indigenous Peoples. We also recognize our responsibility to support a health-care system where Indigenous voices, experiences and knowledge are respected and valued, and where nurses are equipped to provide culturally safe and respectful care.

For ARNM, this means continuing to listen to Indigenous voices, learn about the history and ongoing impacts of colonialism and residential schools, and reflect on how we can contribute to more respectful relationships and better health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples.

September 30 is an opportunity to pause, remember, learn and reflect on the work that remains. We encourage our members to take time to listen, learn and consider how each of us can contribute to the ongoing journey of truth and reconciliation.

Every Child Matters.

ARNM offices will be closed Wednesday, September 30, in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.