In honour of Truth and Reconciliation Week, Orange Shirt Day, and the National day for Truth and Reconciliation, we would like to share some resources and events to help you learn more as we reflect this week.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was declared a federal statutory holiday in 2021 and is also observed annually on September 30. This day recognizes the history and legacy of the residential school system. It honours the resilience, dignity, and strength of the survivors and intergenerational survivors, and remembers the children who never returned home. Recognizing the history and ongoing effects of residential schools is an important part of the reconciliation process. This day provides an opportunity to learn about Canada’s colonial history and how it has and continues to affect Indigenous communities. Learn more about this day at Canada.ca – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Orange Shirt Day is observed annually on September 30 to recognize the residential school experience, to witness and honour the healing journey of the survivors and their families, and to commit to the ongoing process of reconciliation. Learn more about the story of Orange Shirt Day at OrangeShirtDay.org.
Organizations where you can learn more:
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre: offering free admission September 30 – October 2
Indian Residential School Survivors Society
Events during the week of September 26 – 30:
Reconciliation Workshop with Charlene Seward – September 28 (by donation)
On Truth and Reconciliation: Indigenous artist James Harry discusses his project with SOS Village – September 30 (free)
Resources and readings:
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action
Decolonization: A Resource for Indigenous Solidarity
