Statement from GP Coleman: Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Brothers and sisters in Canada,

Today, I want to join you in acknowledging the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. September 30th is a powerful reminder of Canada’s history with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

As we honour the children who never returned home and the survivors of residential schools — who are not only survivors, but Elders, knowledge keepers and leaders of their communities — we are reminded of the strength and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who continue to heal and share their truths about the lasting impacts of generational trauma.

However, this history is not Canada’s alone; the United States must also confront its own histories of injustice, because values like truth and reconciliation have no borders. We all have an obligation to justice and healing, just like we all have a commitment to solidarity and to one another.

At SMART, we are dedicated to creating safer and more inclusive workplaces. Through our Belonging and Excellence for All (BE4ALL) effort and the I Got Your Back Campaign, our union is committed to learning from and amplifying the voices of every one of our members, including our Indigenous brothers and sisters.

As we reflect on this day, I want to reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation. Our future will continue to be based on truth, respect and dignity for all our members, as we put reconciliation into action.

In solidarity,

Michael Coleman

SMART General President