September 27, 2024
Daily Herald Contributor
Orange Shirt Day pays tribute to the survivors of residential schools, those who did not return home, their families, and the communities affected.
This day serves as a chance for all residents of Saskatchewan to engage in reconciliation by taking time to listen, read, participate in events, and support initiatives that acknowledge the harms caused by Canada’s Indian Residential School system.
Orange Shirt Day coincides with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation which is Sept. 30. It also a day that people are encouraged to wear orange shirts to recognize the legacy of residential schools in Saskatchewan as well as Canada.
“In Canada generally and Prince Albert in particular, we have a high proportion of residents who are Indigenous and residential schools are a huge part of our history and their legacy is felt today,” Kiley Bear, Director of Corporate Services for the City of Prince Albert said. “The average Canadian has a lot of work to do to learn about their history and the impact they (Residential Schools) have had on Indigenous people living today. The idea is that we will use that day in particular to take a moment to learn about residential schools and the impact they have had.”
The Final Report of the 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission outlines the history of residential schools in Canada and emphasizes their ongoing effects. By exploring testimonies and understanding Canada’s history with Indigenous peoples, we can all take steps towards reconciliation.
Read More: https://paherald.sk.ca/prince-albert-prepares-for-orange-shirt-day/