The National day of honouring and remembrance coincides with Orange Shirt Day, a movement started by Survivor Phyllis Webstad to commemorate when her clothes, including her new orange shirt — a gift from her grandmother — were taken away on her first day at residential school. Each September, and throughout the year, we reflect on the ongoing legacy of these ‘schools’, where education was secondary to the goal of assimilation. Between 1870 and 1996, 150 000 First Nations, Metis and Inuit children were forced to go to these schools, and the traumatic effects reverberate through our communities today. Acknowledging the truth is essential for healing. At Crossroads Therapeutic Solutions, we stand in solidarity, recognizing the truths that pave the way for reconciliation.
Crossroads Therapeutic Solutions commits to taking time on September 30th to learn about the ongoing impacts of colonialism, reflect on our responsibilities, and take action to build better relationships. True North Aid has compiled a resource guide here to assist learners who may not know where to start: https://truenorthaid.ca/resources/
The organization, which raises funds on behalf of Moon Time Connections, is also a great place to make donations:
https://truenorthaid.givecloud.co/moontimeconnections
For those whose who attended residential schools, or had family members who did, the day can involve traumatic memories. The Hope for Wellness Helpline offers immediate help to all Indigenous people across Canada.
It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to offer immediate support and crisis intervention.
Call the toll-free Helpline at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat at www.hopeforwellness.ca.
