Credit: @IIL on Instagram
This year, September 30 will be the first to no longer just be known as Orange Shirt Day, but officially as National Truth and Reconciliation Day.
Fanshawe’s Institute of Indigenous Learning will be hosting a panel beginning at 10 a.m. to talk about the importance of Truth and Reconciliation Day, and what it means for Indigenous communities.
In keeping the community involved together on campus, a ceremony will be held after the panel in the field by Merlin residence.
Credit: @IIL on Instagram
Indigenous Transition and Learning Advisor Skyler Sutherland is looking forward to the panel being an opportunity for the community to come together to talk about reconciliation openly.
“I think it would be beneficial for both worlds of Indigenous and non-Indigenous because I see it as a time to finally tell our story. Now is a time for non-Indigenous people to start listening, really.”
Another way the community can get involved for Truth and Reconciliation Day through Fanshawe is to record and upload a video to voice ideas towards meaningful actions in support for reconciliation.
“Some students are kind of unsure about the resources Fanshawe has, so what we do is we really try to put ourselves out there by creating events, and social activities. We really try to reach out to the Indigenous student body and really try to connect with them. At the centre, we really try to create a safe space for them and to create a home away from home for them.”
Students looking to connect with IIL are able to here.
The X will also be presenting special programming in honour of the first ever National Day of Truth and Reconciliation beginning at 6 a.m. heard at 106.9 and online.
Helpful Resources:
National Indian Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
Comments