ONTARIO-Schools, community groups, businesses and residents across the province are taking a moment today for National Truth And Reconciliation.
Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day honours the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. People wear orange shirts to symbolize support for residential school survivors The day is said to have originated from the story of residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad, who had a new orange shirt taken from her when she was six years old.
Premier Doug Ford and Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation, released the following statement in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day:
“Today, we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour the survivors of the Indian Residential School system and remember the children who did not return home. We honour the families and communities who continue to bear the weight of this legacy.
Today, we also recognize Orange Shirt Day, inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, whose orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at a residential school. Phyllis’ story reminds us of the deeply personal and painful experiences of survivors and the need to commemorate the history of these schools.
Across the province, government buildings will be lit in orange, and many will wear orange shirts as we honour survivors, families and communities.
We encourage everyone to take part by listening and learning. These stories are difficult to hear, but essential to acknowledge, as we come together on the journey of reconciliation.”
