Today (September 30th) marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, a day dedicated to honouring residential school Survivors, their families and communities, while recognizing the lasting impacts of Canada’s residential school system.
Orange Shirt Day began in Williams Lake, British Columbia, in 2013 as a grassroots movement inspired by the experience of residential school Survivor Phyllis Webstad. It has since grown into a nationwide day of remembrance and reflection, with the message Every Child Matters.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was established in response to Call to Action 80 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The federal statutory holiday was officially established in 2021.
Centre Wellington
Here in Centre Wellington, residents are being invited to mark the day through a special event at the Elora Centre for the Arts.
The Township is partnering with Dalton Associates to welcome Leo Stands Alone Strong Atlookan of Eabametoong First Nation, along with his brother, Elmer Atlookan.
The brothers will share cultural teachings and storytelling, including personal reflections on history and traditional ways of living on the land.
The afternoon and evening will also feature flute and hand drumming, along with traditional regalia and an explanation of its cultural significance. Residents can stay afterward for a meet-and-greet with Leo and Elmer.
There are two sessions today, from 2 to 4 p.m. and again from 7 to 9 p.m., at the Elora Centre for the Arts on Melville Street. The event is free, but registration is required due to limited space.
More information and registration are available at centrewellington.ca/NDTR.
Guelph
Children, youth, and community members are invited to a Truth and Reconciliation After School Event at Guelph Civic Museum on Wednesday, September 30th from 5 pm to 8 pm.
It’ll honour children lost to residential schools and support the healing of survivors and their families.
To learn more about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation visit https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/national-day-truth-reconciliation.html
