September 30, 2023 marks the National Truth and Reconciliation Day, a day that honours the children who never returned home and survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities.

It is an opportunity for reflection, learning and a step towards reconciliation. At Pacific Blue Cross, we believe it is our responsibility to be part of this journey. As part of our commitment to reconciliation, we aim to enhance our understanding of the past and the harm caused, and then take action to move reconciliation forward.

“We are committed to inclusivity, diversity and fostering a respectful and understanding workplace environment,” said Rob Chiarello, Senior Vice President, People and Culture.  “We’re proud of the work we’ve done through our partnership with First Nations Health Authority and supporting communities through our Health Foundation. We remain dedicated to building respectful partnerships with Indigenous peoples and communities in BC.”

We encourage all British Columbians to observe this day in a manner that is respectful and meaningful to them. Ways to observe and honour the day can include:

Wearing Orange

Both, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day take place on September 30. Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day intended to raise awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters.”  The orange shirt is a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.

Reflection and Learning

We offer our employees designated time off for personal reflection and to further their learning journeys. This day also provides an opportunity to explore the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and stories of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.

This year, communities across BC will also be hosting concerts, art shows, film screenings, gatherings and conversations dedicated to educating, healing and celebrating the resilience of Indigenous people. The Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) will also be broadcasting special documentaries and TV shows in honour of the survivors of residential, day and boarding schools.

Together, we can contribute to a more just and equitable future. With this mindset, we remain committed to building partnerships with Indigenous peoples and communities in BC through dialogue, understanding and action.

For more information on our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, visit our Truth and Reconciliation webpage.

We acknowledge that our operations are located in the province of British Columbia and on the traditional territories of many distinct First Nations with different cultures, languages and unique dialects. Our head office is located on the unceded traditional lands of the Coast Salish Peoples, specifically the shared traditional territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), Tsleil-Waututh, xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) and Kwikwetlem First Nations.