September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a day to honour residential school Survivors, remember the children who never came home, and recognize how residential schools continue to affect First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities today. The day also takes place on Orange Shirt Day, which helps people learn about the impacts of residential schools and remember that Every Child Matters.
Understanding the history
For many years, Indigenous children were taken away from their families and communities and sent to residential schools. These schools were created to force Indigenous children to leave behind their cultures, languages and traditions. The effects of residential schools are still felt by Survivors, families and communities today. Learning about this history helps us better understand the experiences of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and why reconciliation is important.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was created following a recommendation from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. It gives us a day to honour Survivors and their families, remember the children who never came home, and learn about the history and lasting impact of residential schools.
Beyond wearing orange
Wearing orange on September 30 is one way to show your support and remember the children who never came home. But Truth and Reconciliation is about more than wearing orange for one day. It is also about learning, listening to Indigenous voices and understanding the history of residential schools and their impact on Indigenous communities.
At Vecova, we believe everyone should feel respected, included and supported. Truth and Reconciliation gives us a chance to learn more, reflect on the past and think about how we can help build more welcoming and inclusive communities.
Taking time to learn and reflect
There are many ways to take part in Truth and Reconciliation. This September 30, you can:
- Learn about the history of residential schools and how they continue to affect Indigenous communities.
- Listen to the stories and experiences of Indigenous Survivors and communities.
- Learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
- Support Indigenous-led organizations, events and community programs in Calgary
- Take time to think about what Truth and Reconciliation means in your community and workplace.
Resources in Calgary
If you would like to learn more about Truth and Reconciliation, there are many local resources available in Calgary.
- Visit the City of Calgary’s Indigenous Relations resources to learn more about Truth and Reconciliation in our community.
- Explore Indigenous books, stories and learning resources through Calgary Public Library.
- Learn about the work of the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary and the services they provide to the Indigenous community.
- Visit The Confluence to learn about local history and take part in Truth and Reconciliation programming.
- Look for local Orange Shirt Day events and community activities happening around Calgary.
Resources in Airdrie
- City of Airdrie – Indigenous Relations and Truth and Reconciliation: Learn about Airdrie’s work toward Truth and Reconciliation, local Indigenous communities and upcoming opportunities to learn.
- Circle Connections for Reconciliation: Explore local resources for learning about residential schools, Indigenous history and reconciliation. The City of Airdrie works with Circle Connections on Truth and Reconciliation initiatives.
- Airdrie Public Library: Explore books and other resources to learn more about Indigenous histories, cultures and experiences.
- City of Airdrie Indigenous Culture Programs: The City supports Indigenous-led storytelling, teachings, cultural workshops and other opportunities to learn and connect.
Details:
All Vecova locations will be closed Wednesday, September 30, in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
This includes our Airdrie, NW Kaleidoscope and Beltline locations.
