September 28 2023

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, September 30, provides a specific moment in time for reflection on the tragedies of the residential school system and the damage caused by systemic racism in Canada since the European settlers’ occupation. As a union, and as society as a whole, it is our responsibility to ensure the words of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission are acted upon.

NUPGE doesn’t have the solutions to end systemic racism and colonial policies against Indigenous people. But we, and our Components, are committed to supporting Indigenous-led initiatives, policies, and organizations that give Indigenous people sovereignty over their own affairs. Part of this commitment is educating non-Indigenous people on the history of colonization in Canada and how it connects to present inequalities experienced by Indigenous people.

We are committed to the inclusion of Indigenous people in our unions. This includes reevaluating union practices and traditions that might  prevent Indigenous people from fully participating in the union activities. We commit to educating union staff and elected officers on understanding cultural differences and how to better support Indigenous union members.

As part of the broader labour movement, all unions, including NUPGE, must be allies to Indigenous peoples and their communities. We must defend and advance the rights of Indigenous workers. We dedicate ourselves to strive for justice and partner with Indigenous communities in the spirit of reconciliation.