CQ Truth and Reconciliation Day – September 30, 2021 (PDF)
Thursday, September 30, 2021
All Niijaansinaanik Offices – Our Agency will be observing the first nationally declared Day of Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, 2021. While Niijaansinaanik physical office locations will be closed, our Agency staff are able to be reached for urgent matters 24/7 at 1-855-223-5558.
The day is for public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and “…honours the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process..”[1]
Previous to September 30th being declared a federal statutory holiday, citizens of Turtle Island commemorated the day by wearing orange, in support of “Orange Shirt Day – Every Child Matters©[2]”. The orange shirt has always shown significance in regards to the commemoration of the residential school experience, to show ally ship and honour the healing journey of the survivors and their families. Considering the recent and ongoing discoveries at burial sites across the country, this day is of monumental importance. This day provides an opportunity for all people to recognize and commemorate the legacy of residential schools, hold a day of quiet reflection and/or participation in a community event.
Enso-Binoojiinh Piitendaagzi, All Children Are Important
[1] Government of Canada. (https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/national-day-truth-reconciliation.html) Date modified: 2021-09-21
[2] Orange Shirt Society Board of Directors. Branding and Copyright Policy. June 23, 2021. https://www.orangeshirtday.org/branding-and-copyright-policy.html