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Significant Dates - FNMI

There are a number of significant days recognizing the experiences of FNMI.  ETFO encourages all Ontarians to learn about and mark these days.


On June 3, 2021, a bill to establish September 30 as a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation statutory holiday received Royal Assent.

In honour of ETFO’s endorsement to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action, ETFO is committed to moving forward into reconciliation and commemorates the survivors of the residential school system, their families and Indigenous communities by recognizing September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation across the nation.

 CALL TO ACTION 80:
We call upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal Peoples, to establish, as a statutory holiday, a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour Survivors, their families and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.

Canada’s legacy is a part of our collective history and our journey into reconciliation is also a demonstration of our commitment. It is important that we support each other in our learning journey and that ETFO provide opportunities and resources for members to be culturally inclusive educators, including teaching about the residential school system.

The Orange Shirt Day campaign provides Canadians with an opportunity to participate in a collective act. As the campaign embraces the phrase “Every Child Matters” we encourage members to support this campaign and wear orange or participate in a school commemoration activity. Visit the Orange Shirt Day webpage for more information and to access lesson plans at www.orangeshirtday.org.

Please contact Sabrina Sawyer, ssawyer@etfo.org for any questions.
On June 3, 2021, a bill to establish September 30 as a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation statutory holiday received Royal Assent meeting the Call for Action 80 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s report.

For more information and resources: Click Here 

​​In cooperation with national Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada designated June 21 National Indigenous Day. This date was chosen because it corresponds to the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and because for generations, many Indigenous groups have celebrated their culture and heritage at this time of year. 

​National Indigenous History Month is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the cultural diversity of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit in Canada, and to celebrate the unique contributions and presence of Indigenous Peoples.

To learn more about Indigenous Peoples worldviews using ETFO developed instructional resources, please check out etfofnmi.ca and shopETFO.

For member resources, ETFO members can log in to ETFO Secure.