National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

September 30th marks the second National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day in the City of Edmonton.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process. At the City of Edmonton, it is a day of solidarity with Indigenous staff and communities.

On September 30, the city will fly flags at half mast, the High Level Bridge will be lit in orange, orange ribbons will be placed on fleet vehicles and city staff will be wearing orange shirts and pins  to commemorate the significance of the terrible history of Indian Residential Schools and the sad legacy that this has created.

For those who might not know about the significance of the colour orange, let me tell you the story of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad who had her new orange shirt taken away from her on her first day at St. Joseph Mission residential school. Since 2013, her story has inspired Orange Shirt Day on September 30th. Wearing an orange shirt or other orange attire is a respectful way to honour the children, families, communities, survivors, and intergenerational survivors of Canada’s Indian Residential Schools, as well as the Indigenous children that did not survive.

For more information on commemorative events in the City of Edmonton please visit: https://www.edmonton.ca/attractions_events/schedule_festivals_events/national-day-for-truth-and-reconciliation

If you or someone you love is experiencing trauma as a result of residential schools or intergenerational trauma there are supports available 24/7 through Indian Residential School Crisis Line toll-free at 1-866-925-4419.