Premier RJ Simpson issued a special statement for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
“Today marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour the Dene, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit children who never returned home from residential schools, as well as the survivors, their families, and communities. Today is a reminder of a painful chapter in our history—one we must never forget and from which we must continue to learn.
In the Northwest Territories (NWT), where half the population is Indigenous, the painful legacy of residential schools is deeply felt—whether as survivors of the trauma or through the experiences of those close to us. As part of this government’s mandate, we are committed to addressing the effects of trauma and supporting residents and communities in healing.”
Simpson adds that, in collaboration with Indigenous governments, the GNWT has been working to implement the Truth and Reconciliation Committee’s Calls to Action, and are also working on the Council of Leaders and the NWT Housing Forum to help ensure that the unique needs of Indigenous residents are being met.
“In this spirit of collaboration, next week, Cabinet will participate with other Council of Leaders members in meetings with federal Ministers to advocate for the people of the Northwest Territories. This is reconciliation in action, reinforcing our commitment to building a prosperous future that creates an environment in which Indigenous residents and communities can one day thrive.
On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, let us remember the children who never came home from residential schools and honour the survivors and their families. I encourage all residents to attend community events in recognition of residential school survivors, amplify Indigenous voices, and reflect on how each of us can advance reconciliation in our own communities.
I acknowledge the profound pain and trauma that many residents continue to carry. Your stories, your histories, and your futures matter. I hope you can find the space—whether in solitude or among loved ones and community — to commemorate this day in a way that fosters healing. Together, we will continue on this journey of reconciliation, recognizing that it is a shared path we must walk together.”
