EDMONTON–Some employers across the province will recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation despite the provincial government’s refusal to make it statutory holiday. However, many employers are not acknowledging the day and among them is the Government of Alberta (GOA).
"This means far too many Albertans will not have the opportunity to do what we are called on to do on this important day, reflect on the massive injustices of our past and find a path to a more fair and just future for all," says AUPE vice-president Bobby-Joe Borodey.
Despite recognizing other national holidays in the collective bargaining agreement it has with members of AUPE, the GOA is once again refusing to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Borodey notes that the provincial government's refusal is particularly disappointing.
“The provincial government should be leading by example,” she says. “If our own elected officials, our leaders, do not recognize the deep meaning and importance of this day, it emboldens other employers to do the same.”
Though the GOA is forgoing a show of support and recognition, AUPE stands in solidarity with our Indigenous brothers, sisters, and fellow workers and commits to reconciliation while reflecting on the injustices of the past.
“It is so important to pause and reflect on the tragic impacts of our colonial history,” says Borodey. “AUPE members and those workers employed by understanding employers appreciate the step towards meaningful truth and reconciliation.”
The Alberta Union of Provincial Employee (AUPE) thanks those employers acknowledging and honouring such an important day.
Employers recognizing the holiday with staff who are AUPE members include:
Athabasca University
AXR Operating LP
Bethany Camrose
Bow Valley College
Brazeau Seniors Foundation
Brenda Stafford Foundation
Capital Care
CIVIDA
Carewest
Copper Sky Seniors Lodge
County of Northern Lights
Covenant Care
Covenant Health
Edmonton Catholic Schools
Extendicare
Devonshire Care Centre
Good Samaritan Society
Green Acres (Piyami and Alberta Rose)
Grande Prairie Regional College, Fairview Campus
Lamont County Housing Foundation
Legacy Lodge
Lethbridge College
Living Waters Catholic Schools
Optima Living Sweetgrass
Red Deer Polytechnic
Strathcona County
Town of Ponoka
University of Calgary
Vice-president Borodey is available for interviews.
Please contact Kavi Chahal, Communications Officer: 780-729-5108 or k.chahal@aupe.org.