Many British Columbians wonder whether September 30 is a statutory holiday in the province. The answer is yes, September 30 is a statutory holiday in BC in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. In this blog post, we’ll explain what the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is, why it has been recognized as a statutory holiday, and how it will impact employers and employees in British Columbia.
What is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day of remembrance and recognition of the harms caused by the residential school system in Canada. It is a day to honor the survivors, their families, and communities affected by the residential school system and to promote understanding and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. The day was established through the passing of Bill C-5, which received Royal Assent on June 3, 2021.
Why is it a statutory holiday in British Columbia?
The decision to recognize September 30 as a statutory holiday in British Columbia is part of the province’s ongoing efforts to acknowledge and address the legacy of the residential school system. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action emphasized the importance of education and awareness of the residential school system’s history and impacts. By recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a statutory holiday, the government of British Columbia aims to promote reconciliation and provide an opportunity for people to learn more about this important part of Canada’s history.
How will it impact employers and employees in British Columbia?
As a statutory holiday, September 30 is a day off for many employees in British Columbia. Employers who operate businesses that provide essential services, such as hospitals and grocery stores, will still be required to provide these services, and their employees may be required to work on the holiday. Employers who have employees working on the holiday will be required to provide statutory holiday pay, which is typically at a rate of 1.5 times the employee’s regular wage rate, or give the employee a day off in lieu.
Additional Resources
here are some additional resources that can support your efforts to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30:
- The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation is a vital resource for learning about the residential school system’s history and its ongoing impact on Indigenous peoples in Canada. The Centre offers educational resources, including teaching materials for schools and community organizations, and a database of survivor statements.
- The Indian Residential Schools Survivors Society is a British Columbia-based organization that provides support and advocacy for residential school survivors and their families. They offer counseling, outreach services, and educational programs.
- The First Nations Health Authority provides a wealth of information and resources related to Indigenous health and wellness. They offer information about cultural safety and humility, including resources for healthcare providers, and information about the residential school system’s impact on Indigenous health.
- The Government of Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation webpage provides information about the day and its significance. The page includes educational resources, including a list of recommended books, films, and podcasts, and information about commemorative events taking place across the country.
By accessing these resources, you can deepen your understanding of the residential school system’s legacy, support reconciliation efforts, and find ways to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in your workplace and community.
How can Magenta HR help?
At Magenta HR, we understand that managing payroll and statutory holidays can be complex and time-consuming. We offer professional HR services to help businesses navigate these challenges. Our team of experts can provide customized solutions and advice to ensure that your business remains compliant with all relevant regulations while managing your employees’ schedules and payroll. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business manage the statutory holidays and remain compliant.
In conclusion, September 30 is a statutory holiday in British Columbia in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This holiday is of great importance as it recognizes the devastating impact of the residential school system on Indigenous peoples in Canada and serves as a step towards reconciliation.
Employers and employees should be aware of their rights and responsibilities related to statutory holidays and ensure that they are compliant with all relevant regulations. At Magenta HR, we are here to help businesses navigate these challenges and provide customized solutions to ensure that your business remains compliant while managing your employees’ schedules and payroll.