I am an Ojibwe Cree Resident Physician and I am obliged to advocate for those without a voice. My kokum (grandmother) died in 2021,  before the establishment of Orange Shirt Day as a federal holiday and her history acknowledged. Despite its recognition at a Federal level, September 30th is still not acknowledged as a provincial holiday across Canada and P.A.R.O.. There are thousands who lost their lives in residential schools, and countless more who survived but were silenced in other ways.

September 30th, known as Orange Shirt Day, was created by the National Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. It honors the children who attended residential and day schools, like Phyllis Webstad, who bravely shared her story of resilience and hope. It serves as a solemn reminder of the atrocities faced by Indigenous children and the enduring impact of these institutions on Indigenous communities.

While federal employees receive the day off, only 4.7% of them are Indigenous. In Ontario alone, the remaining 406,000 people do not have  this day recognized as a holiday, reflecting a broader disregard for Indigenous history and culture in provincial policies.

Canada's commitment to reconciliation must be mirrored in every province, ensuring that the history and culture of Indigenous peoples are respected and acknowledged. By making September 30th a statutory holiday, we can open the door to greater understanding and healing for all Canadians.

We need to ensure that this day of reflection and remembrance is accessible to all individuals, regardless of their employment status or location. I urge most of all past, present and future residents to sign this petition in solidarity. Your signature can help transform September 30th into a day of observance and reflection across all provinces, fostering a deeper understanding of Canada's shared history.

This IS something we can fix!

Please sign this petition and stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities as we strive to preserve our history and honor those who were lost.