Truth and Reconciliation
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is held annually on September 30th.
The day honours the children who never returned home, the survivors of Residential Schools, their families and their impacted communities. It is also an opportunity to commit to truth, reconciliation and justice with First Nations, Inuit and Métis across Canada.
Orange Shirt Day
Orange Shirt Day is a commemorative day to raise awareness of the individuals, families and communities impacted by Residential Schools. The symbol of the orange shirt promotes the message, “Every Child Matters” and addresses the stripping away of culture and freedom experienced by Indigenous children over the years.
Oxford College’s Perspective and Initiatives
Oxford College prioritizes the reflection of Canada’s true Indigenous history and is dedicated to working towards reconciliation.
All students and staff are encouraged to wear an orange shirt on September 30th, in support of the survivors, families and communities impacted by Residential Schools.
To help deepen collective awareness of Indigenous history and its impact on present times, all campuses are encouraged to facilitate classroom reflection and review of truth and reconciliation resources.
Indigenous Resources:
- Hope for Wellness Helpline – First Nations, Inuit and Métis seeking immediate emotional support https://www.hopeforwellness.ca
- The National Residential School Crisis Line – 24-hour crisis support to former Residential School students and their families 1-866-925-4419
Informative Links:
Learn more by visiting the links below.
Canadian Human Rights Commission – Truth and Reconciliation Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Pclwpj1m8M
TRC Canada’s Reconciliation and Residential Schools
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDyknk-KwI4
We Know the Truth: Stories to Inspire Reconciliation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEC_BoSS68E
What Does “Every Child Matters’ Mean?
https://uniteforchange.com/en/blog/indigenous/every-child-matters/