From September 24 – 30, Canadians recognize Truth and Reconciliation Week – an opportunity to learn about the residential school system and its devastating effects on Indigenous peoples. This week is a time to reflect on the past and look towards a better future of healing and reconciliation.

At Vista Virtual School, we will be paying special attention to our reconciliation responsibilities. We are always aware of and committed to the work still to be done by learning the truth of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit history in Canada.

As part of our efforts, staff and students will be participating in special opportunities to learn more about Canada’s colonial history throughout the week and we hope you will join us in this meaningful journey towards truth and reconciliation.

Here are some ways that we can participate in Truth and Reconciliation Week:

• Attend local events: Many events are held across the country during Truth and Reconciliation Week. This is a great opportunity to learn from Indigenous peoples and participate in traditional ceremonies and activities.
• Educate yourself: There are many resources available to learn about the history of residential schools and Indigenous peoples in Canada. Take the time to read books, watch documentaries, and listen to podcasts to gain a better understanding of this important topic.
• Listen to Indigenous voices: Indigenous peoples have been sharing their stories and experiences for years. Take the time to actively listen to what they have to say and learn from their perspectives.
• Take action: Reconciliation is a process that requires action. Consider ways that you can contribute to reconciliation efforts in your community. This could include volunteering, donating to Indigenous organizations, using the #NDTR hashtag, or advocating for Indigenous rights.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Orange Shirt Day
• Day for Truth and Reconciliation
• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
• Government of Canada Website
• Understanding the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
• Meaning Behind The Visuals

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS

• Health Support Program
• Hope for Wellness Help Line 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat (Google Chrome)

TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION WEEK 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

CAMROSE

• Orange Shirt Moose Hide Beading (Sept 28 @ 5 p.m.)

DEVON

• National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Gathering (Sept 30 @ 9 a.m.)

EDMONTON

• Free admission to the Art Gallery of Alberta (Sept 30)
• Reconciliation Garden Opening – ‘Kihciy Maskikiy / Aakaakmotaani’ (Sept 29 @ 1 p.m.)
• 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.)

FORT MCKAY

• National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Gathering (Sept 27 @ 5 p.m.)

LEDUC

• Orange Shirt Workshop (Sept 26 (Youth drop-in) and September 27 (all ages) @ 1 p.m.)

LETHBRIDGE

• Create your own orange shirt (Sept 24 @ 1 p.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)
• Orange Hide Pin Kit with Tutorial