Town of Penetanguishene observes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Today, September 30, 2021 marks the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as well as Orange Shirt Day.

Town staff and Council members participated this morning in a moment of silence to honour the thousands of families affected by the residential school system and to reflect on the dark and difficult parts of our shared history with Indigenous people.  Throughout the day our offices will remain open and staff will be able to participate in several events providing education and awareness around Truth and Reconciliation as we recognize that reconciliation is the responsibility of all of us.  

This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we encourage you to explore the rich and diverse cultures, experiences and stories of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples through quiet reflection, participating in events, or sharing a conversation.

Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day that honours the children who survived Indian Residential Schools and remembers those who did not. The “orange shirt” in Orange Shirt Day refers to the new shirt that Phyllis Webstad was given to her by her grandmother for her first day of school at St. Joseph’s Mission residential school in British Columbia. When Phyllis got to school, they took away her clothes, including her new shirt. It was never returned. It is now a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.

Educational Resources:

The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation has put together a great resource of educational materials for the general public. Throughout the day the site will provide historical workshops, exclusive video content, and activities for youth — all supported by artistic and cultural performances by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists.

Mental Health Support:

• Former Residential School students can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports from the Government of Canada.
• Indigenous peoples across Canada can also go to The Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for counselling and crisis intervention.
• Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat.