While a lot of companies chose to do so on their own, the Manitoban government is considering the decision to make orange shirt day on September 30th, also known as the national day for truth and reconciliation a provincial statutory holiday.
In a statement, Premier Heather Stefanson said “It’s part of reconciliation and moving forward on that front, if we do go in that direction,” adding “We need to ensure that we talk to the business community and see what this means to them, we talk to Indigenous communities and see what it means to them. We haven’t had a chance to do that.”
Ian Bushie, NDP critic for Indigenous Relations clarified that the purpose is not simply give Manitoban’s another day off work, but to “mark the day with solemn reflection and education.”
The Manitoba government will begin consulting with indigenous leaders and businesses before the final decision is made.
- Jasmin Laine
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