SLC Commemorates National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Submitted by Gert Schreoder, Indigenous Student Advisor

Phyllis Webstad’s goal in founding Orange Shirt Day (now National Day for Truth and Reconciliation), was to facilitate ongoing conversations about the devastating effects of Residential Schools on Indigenous People.

The Honour Walk brought together over 200 members of our college family on our Kingston campus, 45 in Cornwall, and 40 in Brockville to have those conversations and engage in a meaningful act of reconciliation. Students, staff, and faculty were united not just by their orange shirts, but by their desire to be part of the journey of Truth and Reconciliation.

Some of the participants are themselves directly impacted by the intergenerational effects of the Residential Schools. The Honour Walk provided an opportunity to show our support, respect, and empathy for those children who were taken away from their families and placed in residential schools, and for their families who suffered the loss of their children, who are the heart and soul of Indigenous communities.

The Walk also enabled participants to learn more about the history of Indigenous People and the history of Canada, which are, in fact, one and the same. Orange Shirt Day is an excellent initiative but should not be an isolated event.

There are many ways to keep the spirit of the Honour Walk vibrant and impactful. Wear your orange shirt throughout the year and use it as a catalyst for conversation. Educate yourself about the Residential Schools, Indian Day Schools, Indian Hospitals, and the Sixties Scoop.

Do not ask an Indigenous person to educate you in these topics; this may simply be too traumatic for them. Instead, access the many reputable resources available online and in print. Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report. Study and reflect carefully upon the 94 Calls to Action. Choose one or more of these Calls and act upon it. Support Indigenous media and Indigenous artists. Practice cultural humility. In the words of Gord Downie, “Do Something”.