This Thursday, September 30 is Orange Shirt Day and the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
On this day, we honour all those whose lives were impacted by the residential school system – lost children, survivors, their families and communities. We reflect on the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of these schools as we work towards reconciliation.
Councillor Sean Kelly and the city’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee have consulted with members of our Indigenous community including Chief R. Don Maracle of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, local musicians, cultural advisors, educators and school boards, to design a cultural and educational program for a small, respectful recognition event to be held on Sept. 30.
The event will take place on the Bernice Parrott Stage in George Zegouras Market Square behind City Hall beginning at noon on the event day, and will include stories, music and Indigenous artisan demonstrations.
Residents are asked to wear orange in support of Orange Shirt Day. Those planning to attend the recognition event are asked to practise COVID-19 safety regulations including wearing a mask and practising physical distancing at all times.
“Today is a day to reflect on the history of residential schools,” said Chief R. Don Maracle of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte. “Many children suffered great abuse in the residential school system, many died and their bodies were never returned to their families. Today, there is much work to be done in reconciliation for the harm that was done at these schools, and I really appreciate Canadians learning more about this tragic part of the country’s history.”
“We would like to thank Chief Maracle and all of the members of our ad-hoc committee for working with us on this program,” said Chair of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee Councillor Sean Kelly. “Our hope is that this event will be an opportunity for our community to come together to recognize this important day and reflect on the impact that the residential school system had and continues to have on our Indigenous community.”
“Sept. 30 marks a very important day for our city, our community and our country as a whole,” said Mayor Mitch Panciuk. “It is a day to listen with open ears to the stories of survivors and their families, and to remember those that did not make it home. I would like to ask that all residents take time today for education and reflection.”
In addition to the recognition event, the Bridge Street Bridge and BELLEVILLE sign will be lit orange and an Every Child Matters flag will be flown at Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre to honour this important day. The flag at City Hall will also be lowered to half-staff as we remember and mourn all victims of the residential school system.
THE ABOVE WAS A PRESS RELEASE FROM THE CITY OF BELLEVILLE
Meanwhile there will be a ReconciliACTION Day Concert at the Regent Theatre in Picton Thursday. Tickets are free and the event will be also be livestreamed.
Among the entertainers will be David R. Maracle, Tom Wilson, Digging Roots and Eaoh Argos.
Find more information here on the event that starts at 8 p.m. Thursday.
