Nova Scotia will annually recognize Sept. 30 as Truth and Reconciliation Day beginning in 2021.

Provincial government offices, public schools and regulated child care will be closed. Businesses will have the choice, as they do on other occasions, to remain open.

“We are taking this step to recognize the importance of honouring First Nations, Inuit and Métis residential school survivors and their families and communities,” said Premier Tim Houston. “We encourage all Nova Scotians, whether you are working or in school, to make time on September 30 for important discussions about Canada’s history of residential schools.”

Truth and Reconciliation Day will acknowledge the legacy of residential schools and the role it holds in the reconciliation process.