The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and Orange Shirt Day, take place today, September 30, to recognize the tragic history and impacts of residential schools. Both days are for remembrance, solemn reflection, action, and learning.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation responds to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Call to Action (#80). The orange shirt relates to the experience of Phyllis Webstad on her first day of residential school when her new orange shirt was taken from her. It is now a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom, and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.
In observation of this important day, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority will be closed to provide staff the time and opportunity to learn about Indigenous experiences and support cultural change. Out of respect and support of residential school survivors, the NPCA will not share any content on social media, other than important resources and orange banners related to and in recognition of this day.
We recognize the importance of engaging in learning activities to raise awareness and understanding of the devastating impact of Canada’s residential school system. This is a vital part of our commitment to shared stewardship of natural resources and to expand our knowledge of Indigenous culture and history in the watershed.
The NPCA encourages all residents and visitors of this watershed to continue to learn about Truth and Reconciliation, Indigenous culture, peoples, treaties, art, history and traditions on an on-going basis.
RESOURCES
- Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: 94 Calls to Action
- Monitor progress with Beyond 94: Truth & Reconciliation in Canada
- Commit to personal actions towards truth and reconciliation
- Learn about residential schools
- Learn about Orange Shirt Day and wear orange to honour residential school survivors and children that never made it home.
- Listen to the stories of residential school survivors and messages of hope from Indigenous peoples: A Day to Listen
- Watch: Canadian Residential School History
- Find out if there was a residential school near you
- Learn about Indigenous culture
- Visit the Woodland Cultural Centre—the site of the Mohawk Institute Residential School is now home to a museum in Brantford, ON. They host a virtual tour every Wednesday ($10 donation).
LOCAL RESOURCES
- Attend the Niagara Regional Native Centre’s 8th Annual Traditional Pow Wow
- Buy an orange shirt from a local Indigenous organization or person
Get involved with local Indigenous Friendship Centres: