Honouring National Day for Truth & Reconciliation: School Communities Unite for Orange Shirt Day

In the days leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, our school communities have been engaging in meaningful activities to honour the importance of Every Child Matters. Across the district, students, staff, and families have come together to reflect, learn, and show solidarity with Indigenous communities.

At Cedar Elementary School, Friday, September 27 began with a Truth and Reconciliation pancake breakfast. Students, staff, and families gathered to share a meal and participate in a walk, symbolizing unity and respect for the ongoing journey of reconciliation. Later that same morning, Southgate Middle School and Timberline Secondary School joined forces at the Southgate track, where they tied orange ribbons along the fence on Alder Street. These ribbons represent the commitment of our school communities to remember the harmful impact of residential schools.

Over on Cortes Island, students and staff from Cortes Island School gathered at the Klahoose multi-purpose building for a morning of songs and storytelling. This was followed by a community-prepared feast, highlighting the importance of cultural connection and community support. The event served as a powerful reminder of the need for understanding and unity as we move forward together on the path of reconciliation.

Later in the afternoon, students and staff from Cedar Elementary, École Phoenix Middle School, and Carihi Secondary School walked together from Cedar Elementary to the Laichwiltach Family Life Society. Along the way, they reflected on the significance of Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. At the Laichwiltach Family Life Society, Phoenix students presented their artwork to the staff, sharing their expressions of learning and solidarity. After the presentation, participants returned to their respective schools, carrying with them the spirit of the day’s events.

Even Otter, our critical response and trauma service dog, showed his support by wearing his own orange shirt, reminding everyone that the message of Every Child Matters extends to all members of our community.

Other schools, such as Sayward Elementary, will continue to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with activities planned for October 1st. These moments of reflection and community engagement are crucial steps in our shared journey toward reconciliation.

This is just a small sampling of the learning and events that have taken place in our schools across the district in honour of September 30.

We are incredibly proud of our students and staff for their dedication to this important work. The activities and gatherings throughout the district serve as a reminder that we all have a role to play in supporting truth and reconciliation. Together, we are making a difference and reaffirming our commitment to learning and growing as a community.