Today we recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. We honour the survivors of Canada’s residential schools and remember the children who did not survive. Today we reflect on Canada’s past and work on increasing our awareness, understanding and education on the tragic history and long-standing effects of Canada’s Residential Schools. Without acknowledgement, there can be no reconciliation.
We stand to witness the history and commit to change as an ally.
September 30th has historically been known as “Orange Shirt Day” which began in 2013 to raise awareness of the history of residential schools and support reconciliation events and activities in the communities throughout BC and Canada. Read more through the links below on the history of residential schools and Orange Shirt Day.
Residential School History – NCTR
Residential Schools in Canada | The Canadian Encyclopedia
CDC Frog Room Mural by Carla Joseph
CDC Staff in their orange shirts.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada has listed 94 calls to action in order to redress the legacy of the residential schools and advance Canada’s reconciliation. Read the Calls to Action and where the Government of Canada stands on their commitment:
Education is a powerful tool in the steps towards reconciliation. Learn about the history, culture, life, relationships and key issues facing Indigenous people today, with these free resources:
Begin your learning journey (rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca)
Research, Ethnic fraud and the Academy(1).pdf (laurentian.ca)
Commit to change. Learn how you can help, and get involved to build relationships and take meaningful action in your journey of reconciliation.
10 ways to be a genuine ally to Indigenous communities (amnesty.org.au)
Why Should You Learn to Pronounce Indigenous Names (ictinc.ca)
CDC Family Room Mural by Carla Joseph
We respectfully acknowledge the beautiful unceded ancestral lands, culture and people of the Lheidli T’enneh, Tse’Khene and Simpcw First Nations.