*This article contains information and links related to residential schools. If you have been affected by residential schools and need emotional or crisis support, contact the 24-Hour Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line at 1-800-721-0066.*
SNI recognizes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day on Sept. 30. The day honours the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families and communities.
Every Child Matters
We recognize together that our public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process. The impact of residential schools affects all of us – and this Saturday we observe the day for reflection and awareness.
Orange shirt day is a movement that officially began in 2013 but in reality, it began in 1973 when six-year-old Phyllis Webstad entered the St. Joseph Mission Residential School, outside of Williams Lake, BC. Young Phyllis was wearing a brand new orange shirt for her first day of school – new clothes being a rare and wonderful thing for a First Nation girl growing up in her grandmother’s care - but the Mission Oblates quickly stripped her of her new shirt and replaced it with the school’s institutional uniform.
While she only attended for one year, her time in residential school affected Ms. Webstad’s life for many years.
What Role Can I Play?
This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an opportunity to not only reflect on what we know, but also take the time to learn more. Attend an event in your community, or explore some of the learning resources below.
There are many ways you can get involved! Show your support by:
- Wearing an orange shirt on September 30th
- Read Phyllis' story "The Orange Shirt Story" with your peers, family and friends. It's available in English, French and Shuswap.
- Donate to or volunteer your time with organizations working on reconciliation
- Read books by Indigenous authors about residential schools.
Finally: Please be mindful of how sensitive this day is for many people in your community. Show consideration to those who are hurting by listening to those who are willing to share their sensitive stories and give space to those who need it. Making an effort to take the next step in your own journey of lifelong learning on truth and reconciliation is important.
Land Acknowledgement
SNI acknowledges that we are gathered on ancestral lands, Treaty 1 territory, traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene Peoples, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.
Acknowledging this truth is important yet only a small part in cultivating strong relationships with Indigenous communities.
