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Unifor leaders, members, survivors, and community allies gathered in Brantford on September 30 to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with the unveiling of the former Mohawk Institute Residential School as an interpreted historic site.
Ontario Regional Director Samia Hashi and the union’s Director of Indigenous Relations, Gina Smoke, joined members, survivors and local community members at the ceremony.
“As a union, we stand shoulder to shoulder with survivors, families, and communities,” said Ontario Regional Director Samia Hashi. “We honour the children who never came home and commit to ensuring their stories are never forgotten. Reconciliation requires action, and today’s unveiling is a reminder of our responsibility to act both individually and as a union.”
The Former Mohawk Institute, often referred to as “the Mush Hole,” operated from 1831 to 1970, making it the longest-running residential school in Canada.
Its legacy includes countless stories of trauma, survival, and resistance from Indigenous children who were forcibly taken from their families and communities.
By supporting its preservation and interpretation as a historic site, Unifor is helping ensure that future generations understand both the harm caused by colonial policies and the strength of Indigenous peoples who endured them.
“This site is not only a place of memory, it is a place of accountability,” said Gina Smoke. “The stories of survivors must continue to be told, and we must listen with open hearts and take action with clear purpose. Our solidarity with Indigenous communities is not symbolic, it is a sustained commitment and priority.”
The unveiling ceremony included poignant survivor testimonies, self-guided tours through the former school, traditional ceremonies, and a community walk through the grounds. The interpretive site features exhibits and archives that document the history of the Mohawk Institute, amplifying survivor voices and educating the public about the legacy of Canada’s residential school system.
Unifor has been an active advocate for truth and reconciliation, calling on governments to implement all Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and supporting Indigenous-led initiatives across the country.
The union also encourages members to wear orange shirts on September 30 and participate in community events to show solidarity with survivors.
Read Unifor’s statement on National Day Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day).
