MONTREAL — The chief of the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is lamenting Quebec's decision not to officially recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Ghislain Picard and assembly spokesperson Nadia Robertson told reporters today many people in the province seem unaware that Thursday is the new national holiday.
The federal government has said Sept. 30 would be a statutory holiday in honour of the lost children and survivors of residential schools.
But Quebec Premier François Legault in June decided against making the day a provincial statutory holiday.
Picard held a news conference today to mark one year since his group unveiled a plan to fight racism and discrimination.
He says Indigenous issues have become more prominent in Quebec society but many residents are still unsure how they can contribute to reconciliation with First Nations peoples.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on Sept. 29, 2021.
The Canadian Press
Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version described assembly spokesperson Nadia Robertson as vice-chief.
