Except translation, this story has not been edited by achinews staff and is published from a syndicated feed.
Monday is National Truth and Reconciliation Day and Albertans marked the day with ceremonies across the province.
Marked on September 30 each year, the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation honors the survivors of Canada’s residential school system and the children who did not return home.
A ceremony was held at the University of Calgary on Monday morning, where the flags on campus were lowered to half-mast.
The elders shared their stories and highlighted the importance of the day to all Canadians.
A full day of free programs are offered at The Confluence Historic Site and Parkland, formerly Fort Calgary, to mark the day.
“We have seen more and more demand for understanding the truth of this site and certainly the history of the land itself, certainly from an Indigenous point of view, but then also understanding the damage caused by colonization in our city,” said Jennifer Thompson, president of The Confluence.
“That’s something we take very seriously and we’re very committed to telling those stories.”
An event will also be held on the east lawn of the Alberta legislative grounds at 2 pm Lt.-Gov. Salma Lakhani, Indigenous Relations Minister, Rick Wilson, and Saddle Lake Cree Nation elder Bernie Makokis will be in attendance.
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“On this day, Canadians come together to learn, recognize and reflect on the history and continuing legacy of residential schools,” Wilson said in a statement Monday morning. “It is a time for all of us to reflect on the tragic and painful history and continuing effects of residential schools, and a time to consider how we can all foster a healthier future.”
Those attending events are encouraged to wear orange, to honor residential school survivors.
“Every year, we are inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, who had her new orange shirt ripped off on her first day at boarding school,” said Wilson. “By wearing orange, participating in local events, and taking time to reflect, we can all demonstrate our commitment to understanding and addressing the intergenerational effects of residential schools as we walk the path towards reconciliation.”
More than 150,000 children were forced to attend residential schools, with many survivors detailing to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission the abuse they suffered from those who were supposed to protect them. The last school closed in 1996.
An estimated 6,000 children died in the schools, although experts say the real number could be higher.
The Indian Boarding School Crisis Line (1-866-925-4419) is available 24 hours a day for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of their boarding school experience.
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(Except translation, this story has not been edited by achinews staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
source link https://globalnews.ca/news/10786255/alberta-national-day-for-truth-and-reconciliation/
