Friday, September 30th 2022 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This is a day to honour residential school survivors, their families, and the children who never returned home. We acknowledge the difficult history and generational impact of the residential school system and the experiences of our Indigenous community. On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we come together in hope and to reflect on what actions are needed in the process of reconciliation.

This day also marks Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led commemorative event which stems from Phyllis Webstad’s story. A residential school survivor herself, Phyllis had her orange shirt stripped away on her first day at a residential school. The orange shirt symbolizes the effects of residential schools and their legacy. Today, we listen to survivors as they share their stories and wear orange to stand in solidarity with the Indigenous community.

At Immigrants Working Centre, we are committed to the process of reconciliation and amplifying the voices of our Indigenous community members. We are dedicated to continuing to educate ourselves as we walk together on the path toward healing. Although today is a day to commemorate, we strive to do our part each day moving forward.

We encourage you to listen to Indigenous community members, learn about the steps we can collectively take, and participate in local Indigenous-led events happening in your community. To learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation process, please read the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.