Tuesday Sept. 30 is Truth and Reconciliation Day in Canada, a day dedicated to honouring those affected by the residential school system.
This year the statutory holiday falls on a Tuesday, and here are opportunities to reflect on the history of the residential school system and learn about the impact its harmful legacy continues to have on Indigenous communities throughout the country today.
The Nawican Friendship Centre in Dawson Creek is hosting a walk in honour of truth and reconciliation. It begins at NAR Park in front if the art gallery at 1 pm, and ends at Aboriginal Family Services. There, free lunch will be provided, between 2 and 3 pm.
School district 59 is also participating in Orange Shirt Day. The district says, “by wearing orange, we show that we care, we remember, and we are committed to treating every child with love and respect.” It encourages all students, staff, and families to wear orange on Tuesday.
The Fort St. John Friendship Center will also host a truth and reconciliation event. It will start at 10 am at the Treaty 8 office with opening remarks and greetings, before heading over to the Friendship Society to design a solidarity-themed shirt. T-shirts are limited and will be available on a first come first serve basis. Then, at 11 am, the walk gets underway back to Treaty 8, where a BBQ lunch will be served.