Truth & Reconciliation Day – 2023

September 30 marks the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day that coincides with Orange Shirt Day. It recognizes the tragic legacy of residential schools, the missing children, the families left behind and the survivors of these institutions. There are many ways in which your can honour today – either by doing some self directed learning or attending events that feature truths about Indigenous, Inuit and Metis peoples of Turtle Island and how we all have a part to play in coming together for true reconciliation.

What you can do:

• Donate to an Indigenous-led organization in your community,take part in the One Day’s Pay campaign or donate directly the Indigenous Peoples Resilience Fund.
• Amplify the important Record Preservation work of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and understand why this work is crucial in acknowledging the atrocities of residential schools. 
• Wear orange. You can purchase Orange Shirts from Indigenous-owned businesses whose proceeds support Indigenous-led non-profits. 
• Read the Philanthropic Declaration of Action. Understand what reconciliation means in philanthropy and develop calls to action for yourself and your community foundation.
• Attend the Climate Project’s online video event Land & Water: Exploring Pathways towards Balance and Harmony where two inspiring Indigenous Elders will engage in a profound discussion on the significance of fostering connections between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous communities.

Local events you can attend:

• Stetís ímexstowx Gathering 10 am gathering at The Reach to listen to Indigenous speakers re Truth and Reconciliation regarding their lived experience and stories
• Story Walk® – Semá:th Xo:tsa: Great Gramma’s Lake: a walking storybook about Sumas Lake outside the Clearbrook Library 
• Strategies for Building Genuine Reconciliation: The Exploring Equity Speaker series, featuring Dr Keith Carlson. Doors at 7 pm, entry by donation. Please RSVP online. 

Advancing reconciliation and renewing the relationship with Indigenous peoples is based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership. Whatever you choose to do, we hope that you’ll take a moment to explore the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Through this process, perhaps we can develop a better understanding of the truths of our sometimes tragic and brutal colonial history, its impact on Indigenous peoples, and how we can work towards healing and reconciliation.