Our division believes in Recognition, Respect and Reconciliation and that fostering a strong partnership between our schools and communities is an integral part of the well-being of our students. Learning history from First Nations, Métis and Inuit knowledge keepers is an important part of reconciliation and is a shared responsibility where we strive to create supportive spaces to develop unity as we move forward.
While much learning occurs throughout the school year, during Truth and Reconciliation Week, September 23-27, Pembina Hills students and staff will devote extra time to numerous learning activities to better understand and honour residential school survivors, their families and communities and commemorate the history and legacy of residential schools as we move forward on the path of reconciliation. Our teachers and educational staff continue to access a growing set of resources and content to support learning about the experiences of Indigenous People in Canada, particularly the impact of residential schools. Some schools have school-wide activities planned this week while others have classroom-based activities.
Remembering the Children: September 30, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day
Orange Shirt Day takes place annually on September 30, also known as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Wearing orange is a symbol of remembering what was taken away from Indigenous children over generations, commemorating the residential school experience and honouring survivors and their families and the lives that were lost. It promotes the belief that “Every Child Matters”.
To honour this day, staff and students will participate in wearing orange on Friday, September 27. We look forward to seeing students and staff wearing orange this week and be sure to check out your school’s website, social media page or newsletters for photos and stories.
There will be a live national broadcast of the commemorative gathering at Parliament Hill in Ottawa on September 30.
Truth and Reconciliation Resources
We encourage parents to visit and explore the content on the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation website. The NCTR is also offering free daily lunch and learn sessions throughout the week through Zoom and a YouTube stream. See the NCTR website to register.