Not long ago, we saw the closing of residential schools and institutions; for many Canadians the pain and memory are fresh, raw and very real.
This year, the day dedicated to Truth and Reconciliation falls between the Jewish new year, Rosh Hashanah, and Yom Kippur during the Ten Days of Repentance.
These are days of mercy and forgiveness, days for confessing one’s sins, checking one’s conscience, and, most importantly, making amends as an opportunity for change.
This year, on September 30th, we participate in the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and take this opportunity to reflect on Canada’s history and the impact of the residential school system–we recognize the pain and seek a path forward that is inclusive and sensitive to the trauma.
On this day we commemorate the children who never returned home while also honouring the tenacity, dignity, and courage of survivors and multigenerational survivors.
It’s an opportunity for discussion and education about Canada’s past and how it affected Indigenous communities. Recognizing this day is one of the first steps in a long journey towards understanding and meaningful reconciliation.
May we have a sweet new year and may it be inscribed for a life of good.
#ReenaFoundation respectfully acknowledges that the Cities of Toronto and Vaughan are on the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples, and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. The cities of Toronto and Vaughan are covered by Treaty 13 signed with the Mississaugas of the Credit, and the Williams Treaties signed with multiple Mississaugas and Chippewa bands. We are grateful to have the opportunity to work, live and play on this territory.
Learn more:
Calls_to_Action_English2.pdf (exactdn.com)
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Canada.ca
https://www.orangeshirtday.org/
#TruthandReconciliationDay
#OrangeShirtDay
