Today, the Toronto District School Board acknowledges the history and legacy of residential schools across this country with the first annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and the 8th annual Orange Shirt Day.

On this day we reflect on the past, honour the survivors and remember the thousands of children who did not survive. We recognize and acknowledge the legacy of residential schools and its significance for Indigenous communities, and nation-to-nation relationship building.

It is also an opportunity for us to learn and educate ourselves about the ongoing impact of the legacy of residential schools on First Nations, Métis and Inuit families and communities. Each of us must take the necessary steps to educate ourselves on Indigenous history and perspectives and the systemic discrimination that’s still ongoing.

With guidance from the Elders Council, the Board marks this day by flying flags at half-mast, wearing orange shirts to show solidarity, and encouraging each school to have a moment of silence at the beginning of the day. We know that these are only gestures and that we must move beyond words and into action and truly commit ourselves to learning and understanding the critical importance of truth, reconciliation and reparation.

This day is one for reflection and action, and a chance to renew our commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action.

Thursday, September 30 is also the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation’s (NCTR) Reconciliation Week, which runs from September 27 to October 1. I encourage you to take that time today to see what’s offered, but also remind you that to move forward, we must continue to learn from and work with Indigenous Peoples, Elders and Knowledge Keepers at every opportunity. Please visit the UIEC’s resource page for valuable Indigenous learning resources.