Sept. 30 marks the second annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day.
The day was designed to commemorate the residential school experience, to witness and honour the healing journey of the survivors and their families, and to commit to the ongoing process of reconciliation.
In 2021, the federal government declared that Sept. 30 be recognized as a statutory holiday for federally regulated workplaces.
While many businesses may be closed in observance of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, there are a number of events happening around the country to learn about the tragic and painful history of residential schools and reflect on the histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples.
If you’re unable to attend an in-person event, individuals are encouraged to wear orange to help create awareness, start respectful conversations with peers or donate to organizations that are helping improve the futures of Indigenous Peoples.
Truth and Reconciliation: (Un)learn with Kelowna Museums
From 12 pm to 4 pm, community members are welcome to take a self-guided tour of the history and culture of the syilx people.
The Okanagan Heritage Museum hopes that guests will understand the broad story of the residential school experience in the Okanagan.
They’ll be offering hands-on activities and individuals will be able to create a small keepsake to bring home.
This event is built for all ages and will help to take away new perspectives on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Learn more here.
"What Does it Mean to be syilx?”: Sncewips Heritage Museum
This exhibit focuses on the voices of community members and their artistic/written expression of identity.
It will also give visitors a chance to answer the question “What Does it Mean to be Canadian?” as a way of exploring the identities of two of the many groups of people who are lucky enough to call the Okanagan home.
The Sncewips Heritage Museum will be set up at the Okanagan Lake Shopping Centre from 10 am to 4 pm and will provide information about the syilx people, along with bannock and tea.
You can learn more about the Sncewips Heritage Museum here.
West Kelowna Warriors game “Every Child Matters”
The Warriors return to the Central Okanagan for their home opening weekend, beginning on Sept. 30 against the Wenatchee Wild.
In respect of Truth and Reconciliation Day, the Warriors will be wearing special “Every Child Matters” jerseys that will be auctioned off through a silent auction taking place throughout the game.
Proceeds from the jersey auction will support the Residential School Survivors Society.
Puck drop is at 7 pm, and tickets can be found here.
Walk for the Children - Okanagan National Alliance
A 5 km walk departing from the Peach in Penticton at 10 am for Reconciliation on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Hosted by the Okanagan Nation Alliance, participants will walk the channel to the Syilx Indian Residential School Monument outside the Penticton Hatchery on En’owkin Trail on the Penticton Indian Reserve.
The walk is open to everyone, and people attending are encouraged to wear an orange shirt.
The Penticton Indian Band will also be hosting a special event for Okanagan Nation members following the walk.
Learn more here.
Celebration of Indigenous Culture and Resiliency
Residents in Penticton can join in on a Celebration of Indigenous Culture and Resiliency hosted by the Four Seasons Cultural Society.
The family event will feature the Red Spotted Horse Drum Group as well as dance performances and an invitation for the public to join in a Round Dance to honour survivors and those lost to Canada’s residential schools.
The event will take place at Penticton's Gyro Beach from 1 pm - 6 pm, and guests are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch and a lawn chair.
Ella Lamoureux and Rez Daddy Present: Indigenous and Proud
On Friday, take part in a drag benefit show for the Indian Residential Schools Survivors Society and 2 Spirits in Motion.
Ella Lamoureux and Rez Daddy, have partnered with Rebellious Unicorns to put on a fundraising event aimed at raising funds for these two artists.
While not your average drag performance, it’ll feature some honest conversations, a diverse cast and some indigenous education while the show takes place.
“Doing this fundraiser with Rez Daddy is important to me as it helps to continue to bring awareness to indigenous causes. Showcasing indigenous artists is a great way to bring people together! I’m really looking forward to this event” says Ella Lamoureux.
The show takes place on Sept. 30 at the Creekside Theater in Lake Country with all proceeds being split between the IRSSS and 2 Spirits in Motion charities.
You can find more information here.
Kamloops Indian Residential School Monument
Residents in Kamloops can take part in a moment of silence and remembrance for those who have suffered in a Residential School.
During the afternoon, a plaque will be presented to the Jensen family in honour of Kenneth C. Jensen along with a book launch and conversation for Tsqelmucwilc: The Kamloops Indian Residential School – Resistance and a Reckoning by Celia Haig-Brown.
“Tsqelmucwilc” (pronounced cha-CAL-mux-weel) is a Secwepemc phrase loosely translated as “We return to being human again.” Tsqelmucwilc is the story of those who survived the Kamloops Indian Residential School, based on the 1988 book Resistance and Renewal, a groundbreaking history of the school – and the first book on residential schools ever published in Canada.
Learn more about the afternoon of events here.
Did we miss an event? Feel free to send it over at [email protected].
