The Strathcona Regional District will join communities across Canada on September 30 in recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, while encouraging residents to use the occasion to learn, reflect and strengthen relationships with First Nations.
The day honours First Nations, Inuit and Métis Survivors of residential schools, remembers the children who never returned home and recognizes the families and communities that continue to experience the impacts of the residential school system.
September 30 Focuses on Learning, Reflection and Reconciliation
The regional district said September 30 provides an opportunity for residents to listen and learn about the history and continuing legacy of residential schools while considering how individuals and organizations can contribute to stronger relationships with First Nations throughout the year.
Residents are encouraged to wear orange and participate in local activities marking the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The SRD is also encouraging people to learn about the First Nations whose traditional territories include the places where they live and work.
A range of educational and reconciliation resources has been highlighted by the regional district, including materials from the Orange Shirt Society, the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
Other organizations identified as resources include the Laichwiltach Family Life Society, Moose Hide Campaign, Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund and the Witness Blanket.
Campbell River Residents Encouraged to Participate in Local Events
In Campbell River, residents are being encouraged to watch for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation activities organized by the Laichwiltach Family Life Society and other community organizations.
The events provide opportunities for people to participate locally while learning more about Indigenous history, experiences and cultures.
The federal government established September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to provide an opportunity for Canadians to commemorate the children who never returned home from residential schools, as well as Survivors, their families and communities.
Orange Shirt Day is also observed on September 30 and has become an important part of public awareness and education about the residential school system and its lasting effects.
Strathcona Gardens to Operate on a Limited Schedule
The Strathcona Gardens Recreation Complex will operate on a limited basis on September 30 as part of the regional district’s recognition of the day.
Everyone Welcome Skate and Pond Hockey will be available from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The arena will also remain open for groups that have already made bookings.
All other regular programming and classes at the recreation complex will be cancelled for the day.
The Strathcona Gardens pool, meanwhile, will already be closed beginning September 26 as preparations continue for the opening of the new Aquatic Centre in October.
Regional District Emphasizes Year-Round Commitment
The SRD Board and staff said their reconciliation efforts extend beyond the annual observance. The regional district has emphasized continuous learning, listening and reflection as part of its work to develop meaningful and respectful relationships with First Nations throughout the region.
The district is encouraging residents to take a similar long-term approach, emphasizing that education and relationship building should continue throughout the year rather than being limited to September 30.
The SRD’s corporate office and Strathcona Gardens Recreation Complex are located on the traditional unceded territory of the Ligʷiłdax̌ʷ people.
The regional district operates within the traditional territories of the Ehattesaht/Chinehkint, Homalco, Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h’, Klahoose, K’ómoks, Kwiakah, Mowachaht/Muchalaht, Nuchatlaht, Tla’amin, Tlowitsis, We Wai Kai and Wei Wai Kum First Nations.
As September 30 approaches, the SRD is asking residents to view the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation not only as a day of remembrance, but also as an opportunity to continue learning and building respectful relationships with First Nations across the region throughout the year.