Minister of National Defence’s message to mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Video / September 29, 2026
Transcript
Today, we mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
We honour Survivors of residential schools.
We remember the children who were taken from their families and communities, including the children who lost their lives in the residential school system.
Truth requires us to face that history.
Reconciliation requires us to act on it.
For generations, First Nations, Inuit and Métis people have served Canada with courage and distinction.
That legacy of service is part of the history of our Canadian Armed Forces, and Indigenous members continue to serve and lead across the Defence Team today.
For us, reconciliation means listening, learning, building trust, and ensuring Indigenous members can serve and lead with dignity and respect.
It also means continuing to build a Defence Team where every member knows they belong and has the opportunity to contribute fully.
A stronger Canadian Armed Forces is built on its people.
Today, we remember.
We listen.
And we recommit ourselves to reconciliation, today and every day.