Today is Canada’s first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation that is being recognized as a federal statutory holiday.
Back in June, Bill C-5 was passed in the House of Commons in response to Truth and Reconciliation Commission Call To Action #90 of 94, making the day a federal holiday.
Communities around Grey Bruce are holding events to mark the day.
September 30th is also known as Orange Shirt Day. It was created in 2013 to commemorate and recognize residential school children. The orange shirt comes form the story of Phyllis Webstad, who on her first day at residential school wore a new orange shirt that was bought for her by her grandmother. The shirt was taken away from her when she got to the school.
The M’Wikwedong Indigenous Friendship Centre in Owen Sound is hosting a Sacred Fire in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation from noon until 3 p.m.
Saugeen First Nation is holding events that are open to community members only (in the interest of pandemic safety). They will light a sacred fire at 8 a.m. There will be activities and information tables at the James Mason Memorial Recreation Centre from 1p.m. to 4 p.m. followed by a drive-thru dinner compliments of the Queen’s Bar and Grill in the parking lot.
At the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, a sacred fire and a residential school album has been available for community members to view since the 28th. They’ll be marking the 30th with their families. Wooden hearts are being distributed by community members at Neyaashiinigmiing.
Grey and Bruce County administrative centres as well as municipalities will mark the day in a number of ways, with town halls flying the Every Child Matters Flag at half mast. Different councils have resolved to do numerous things to observe the day, learn more about Indigenous and Metis people and move towards reconciliation.
- City of Owen Sound Recognizing National Day For Truth & Reconciliation
- Brockton Voices Support For National Day Of Truth And Reconciliation
The federal government says buildings across Canada will be illuminated in orange, including federal buildings like the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill.
Learn about how Bayshore Broadcasting is marking the day HERE
On the eve of the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, #GGMaySimon calls on us to “stand side-by-side with grace and humility, and work together to build a better future for all.” https://t.co/hMJhSi7By1#NDTR pic.twitter.com/3jSRvKG1qN
— Governor General of Canada (@GGCanada) September 29, 2021
*TW: readers may be triggered by the recount of Indian Residential Schools. To access a 24h National Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419*
As we approach #NationalDayforTruthandReconciliation, it’s a good opportunity to learn about Residential Schools. Learn more: https://t.co/dQo4w8o5ZK pic.twitter.com/NaoS0W827m
— Anishinabek Nation (@AnishNation) September 28, 2021