This week Division 1 has been learning about Orange Shirt Day and the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. Truth and reconciliation is an ongoing process that requires reflection and action. In an interview, Phyllis Webstad, the person whose experience inspired Orange Shirt Day, noted that there will come a time when the people who lived through the experience of residential school will be gone, and we are dependent on our youth to carry forward the knowledge of Canada’s history.

Many students already have some background knowledge about residential schools and are continuing to learn challenging truths of Canada’s past. Reconciliation starts with a willingness to listen and learn in order to restore positive relationships for affected communities.

Below are some links to support you in your truth and reconciliation journey:

• Orange Shirt Day – the story behind why we wear orange

• Native Land – learn about whose land you live on

• 94 Calls to Action – a child-friendly document to learn about important steps still needed to be taken towards reconciliation (did you know that this Day of T&R is #80 of the 94 calls to action?)