September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities. It is a time to reflect on the painful legacy of residential schools, recognize their ongoing impacts, and reaffirm our collective commitment to truth, healing and reconciliation.
This day coincides with Orange Shirt Day, inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, whose new orange shirt was taken away on her first day at residential school. Her experience has become a powerful symbol of the loss of identity, culture and belonging experienced by Indigenous children who were separated from their families and communities through the residential school system.
Throughout September, York Region Children’s Aid Society, in collaboration with community knowledge keepers, hosted a variety of learning opportunities, engagement activities and moments of reflection to support staff in deepening their understanding of truth and reconciliation.
As we observe this important day, we encourage our community to continue listening, learning and taking meaningful action toward reconciliation.
🧡 Every Child Matters.
🧡 Every Story Matters.
🧡 Every Step Toward Reconciliation Matters.
Learn more: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/national-day-truth-reconciliation.html
