September 24th, 2024
On Monday, September 30, Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) will acknowledge:
- The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
- Orange Shirt Day
What is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?
In June 2021, the Government of Canada created the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This federal holiday, held every September 30, is a response to the Truth and Reconciliation’s Call to Action #80. The day allows for time and space to reflect on the atrocities committed against First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.
Watch this Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) video to learn more.
What is Orange Shirt Day?
This grassroots and Indigenous led day of recognition honours residential school survivors, those who did not survive, and their descendants.
Watch this Orange Shirt Day video to learn more about the history and importance of this day.
WRDSB’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation
WRDSB accepts its responsibility to work towards Indigenous sovereignty. We must disrupt anti-Indigenous racism and Indigenous erasure. In this way, First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students, families, and community-members can have a sense of success and belonging. We recognize that the challenge of achieving reconciliation is the challenge of our time.
By learning with and about Indigenous people, we will make sure all students have the opportunity to build:
- Intercultural understanding
- Empathy
- Mutual respect
Learn more about the WRDSB Strategic Plan and commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.