SUP Honours National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
SUP/IFPTE Local 160 Executive Vice President Ralph Chatoor
September 30 marked the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada—a day to reflect on the tragic legacy of the residential school system. Over 150,000 Indigenous children were taken from their families over 150 years, and many never returned home. To honour survivors, remember the victims, and commit to advancing reconciliation, the Society of United Professionals (SUP/IFPTE Local 160) has released a video message from Executive Vice President Ralph Chatoor.
The video was filmed in front of murals by Philip Cote of Moose Deer Point First Nation, located near Old Mill Station in Toronto. These murals depict the Anishinaabe origin story and stand as a powerful testament to cultural resilience.
While residential schools sought to erase Indigenous identity, Indigenous peoples continue to revitalize and celebrate their traditions. Projects like Cote’s artwork remind us that reconciliation is not a one-time event but an ongoing process—one that requires respect, reflection, and collective action.
Watch the video here.
Ontario Federation of Labour marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
The Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL), of which the Society of United Professionals (SUP/IFPTE Local 160) is affiliated, joined citizens across Canada on Tuesday in recognising and honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as “Orange Shirt Day”.
The OFL statement honouring the national holiday called on “workers and unions to continue the important solidarity work: defending land and water, supporting Indigenous workers, amplifying Indigenous voices in our unions, supporting Indigenous leadership, and demanding justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirt people.”
Read the full OFL statement.