In honor of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – also known as Orange Shirt Day – Vista Virtual School will be closed on Friday, September 29. Please take a moment to review the information below to discover more about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and how you can get involved.
WHAT IS THE NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION?
September 30 is recognized as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and provides us with the opportunity to reflect on the harmful impact of residential schools and the intergenerational trauma that Indigenous peoples face. It is a day to listen, learn, and commit to taking action towards reconciliation. Vista Virtual School fully supports Orange Shirt Day.
WHY DO WE WEAR AN ORANGE SHIRT?
Phyllis (Jack) Webstad had her bright orange shirt taken from her by teachers on the first day at St. Joseph Mission Residential School. The orange colour reminded Phyllis of feelings of worthlessness, to this day, it is a symbol of recognition of the abuses suffered in residential schools and the harm they did to children’s self-esteem and well-being.
HOW CAN WE GET INVOLVED?
In addition to wearing your orange shirt, the Government of Alberta website suggests people can:
- organize or attend an online or in-person event
- read about the legacy of residential schools
- read the summary of the Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
- find and watch films online about people’s experiences at residential schools
- learn more about Indigenous cultures
Need an orange shirt for next year? Please consider purchasing one from an Orange Shirt Society partner.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- Orange Shirt Day
- Day for Truth and Reconciliation
- Understanding the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION DAY (ORANGE SHIRT DAY) EVENTS
CALGARY
- Orange Shirt Day Fort Calgary Walking Tour (September 30 @ 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.)
- Honouring the Children (exhibit, workshops, and interactive community art) (All September long 11 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.)
- The Children Commemorative Walk and Gathering (September 30 @ 11 a.m.)
- Shop at Indigenous-owned businesses
DEVON
- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Gathering (Sept 30 @ 9 a.m.)
EDMONTON
- Free admission to the Art Gallery of Alberta (Sept 30)
- Nékem: Honouring National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30 @ 12 p.m.)
- Orange Shirt Day Run and Walk with Root for Trees (September 30 @ 12 p.m.)
- Royal Alberta Museum Events (September 30 @ 10 a.m.)
- Indigenous-inspired Crafts & Activities at the Telus World of Science (September 30 @ 9:30 a.m.)
PEACE RIVER
- Orange Shirt Day Run/Walk (September 30 @ 12 p.m.)
VIRTUAL
- Tune into the live National broadcast at Parliament Hill in Ottawa (Sept 30 @ 12 p.m. CDT)