On September 30, CLBC recognizes Orange Shirt Day and the new National Day for Truth and Reconciliation declared by the Government of Canada and marked by the provincial government of B.C. This day commemorates the residential school experience, to witness and honour the healing journey of the survivors and their families, and to commit to the ongoing process of reconciliation. It is an opportunity to create meaningful discussion about the effects of residential schools and the legacy they have left behind.
CLBC’s Indigenous Relations team, led by Joanne Mills, Executive Director of Indigenous Relations, has helped support CLBC staff to recognize the day in a number of ways, including commissioning a painting titled Every Child Matters (which you can see below) by artist Wyatt Collins who is Nlaka’pamux from the Nicola Valley. You can read more about Wyatt here. This artwork is printed on posters that are displayed in local CLBC offices and on orange shirts worn by CLBC staff.
As part of CLBC’s work to strengthen relationships with Indigenous people we serve and their communities, CLBC is inviting Elders in B.C. to join a new Indigenous Elder Advisory group. You can find the invitation here.
CLBC offices will be closed on September 30 in commemoration of this day, providing time for reflection on what each of us can do as individuals to advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
Learn more
To learn more about Orange Shirt Day, Residential Schools and Indigenous Reconciliation, visit these online resources:
- Witness Blanket Project video: www.witnessblanket.ca
- The Truth and Reconciliation Commission: Education – NCTR
- Orange Shirt Society: Orange Shirt Society (orangeshirtday.org)
- Indian Residential School Support Society: www.irsss.ca
Every Child Matters by Wyatt Collins
