September 30 is nationally recognized as Truth and Reconciliation Day – A day to honour the children who never returned home and the Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Recognition of this day is a vital part to the reconciliation process and understanding of the painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools. 🧡
This day of remembrance coincides with Orange Shirt Day, which was initiated by Phyllis Webstad, a member of the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation and a residential school Survivor. On her first day at St. Joseph Mission Residential School, the new orange shirt her grandmother had given her was taken away. This moment left Phyllis feeling worthless and stripped of her identity. Since then, the colour orange has become a powerful symbol of the loss of culture, freedom, and identity experienced by so many children who were forced to attend residential schools.
As part of our Agency’s commitment to truth and reconciliation, our Honouring Indigenous Commitments Committee hosted a variety of learning sessions, engagement opportunities, and moments of reflection for all staff throughout the month of September, in collaboration with community knowledge keepers.
To learn more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, click here.
