Release
Office of the Premier
September 29, 2026
FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following statement was issued by Premier Susan Holt in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Wednesday, Sept. 30:
I respectfully acknowledge that New Brunswick is situated on the unceded and unsurrendered territories of the Wolastoqey, Mi'kmaq and Peskotomuhkati peoples. We seek to repair and rebuild meaningful relationships with Indigenous peoples and honour these lands which hold the hopes of future generations.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day to reflect on actions we can take individually and collectively to advance the continuous process of reconciliation. More importantly, it is also a day to honour and remember the children taken from their families, those who never returned home, and the individuals, families and communities that continue to live with the lasting impacts and trauma caused by the residential school system in Canada.
We are continuing to make progress toward implementing the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, whose work has challenged us to do better and to believe in real change. We are proud to continue taking steps towards economic reconciliation with revenue-sharing agreements with 13 First Nations, as well as ensuring the rights, interests and priorities of First Nation communities are at the forefront as we work together as governments.
While these steps are important, the gaps remain real and significant. There is still work ahead of us to change the historical relationship between government and First Nations, and we remain committed to that work within the framework of our government-to-government model.
Reconciliation is not something that belongs to government alone; it is something we can all contribute to in our workplaces, in our communities and in our personal lives. This day reminds us that we are all treaty people, and we must continue to listen, learn and take meaningful action to repair and rebuild relationships with the Wolastoqey, Mi'kmaq and Peskotomuhkati peoples.
Today, let us pause to remember the children who were taken, to honour the survivors who share their truths, and to renew our collective promise to build a future that is just, inclusive and respectful for all.
Woliwon. Wela’lin. Merci. Thank you.
29-09-26
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