We acknowledge and thank the Coast Salish Nations of Musqueam, Tsleil-Waututh (pronounced: Slay-wa-tooth) and Squamish on whose traditional territories we teach, learn and live.
Orange
Shirt Day is an important opportunity to come together to honour residential school Survivors,
learn more about Truth and Reconciliation, and to honour those that did not return home from
residential schools.
"The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was established in 2008 to document the experiences of residential school Survivors before, during and after their time in residential schools and to lay the foundation for a new relationship based on mutual respect and understanding in Canada. Countries around the world have utilized these transitional justice mechanisms following mass human rights violations in an effort to promote healing and reconciliation and to seek justice for Survivors" (https://indigenouspeoplesatlasofcanada.ca/article/the-road-to-reconciliation/)
"While undertaking this task the TRC spent six years travelling to different parts of Canada to hear the testimony of more than 6,500 witnesses including residential school survivors and others impacted by the school system." (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truth_and_Reconciliation_Commission_of_Canada)
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: 2 videos
The Orange Shirt Society has partnered with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) and is supporting two videos for Grades 5-12. The program contains sensitive subject matter: the nature of the residential school tragedy is such that difficult truths and subjects emerge throughout the program. The programming has been carefully selected to ensure it is age appropriate, inspiring and uplifting while still dealing with difficult subject matters.
Here are some notes from NCTR on advice for students: "There are emotional elements to the program and participation is voluntary. Students are not forced into tackling emotions they are not yet ready or able to confront. If students are watching from home you are encouraged to watch the program with a friend or trusted relative, so you have someone available to support you if you have questions or concerns about the content. Students are also encouraged to reach out to one another during the program which can be helpful in ensuring you feel supported and not alone while viewing the program."
The first act focuses primarily on truths about residential schools. Survivors, Elders and others will share information on the history and impact of residential schools.
The second act focuses primarily on reconciliation. Several well-known speakers speak to the importance of using one’s voice while also thinking critically about issues of racism and other systemic issues in Canada.This program reflects the important concept that truth must come before reconciliation.