On September 30, we honour the Survivors of residential schools and the children who never came home, as well as their families and communities during National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Also recognized as Orange Shirt Day, this day is a time for reflecting on the tragic and ongoing legacy of the residential school system and finding our own ways to support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 calls to action.
Below are a list of activities open to the public who wish to further educate themselves and honour this significant day.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 3rd Annual Community Event
Orillia Public Library
Saturday, September 30 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Hosted by the Orillia Native Women’s Group, Mamaway Wiidokdaadwin, and Biminaawzogin Regional Aboriginal Women’s Circle, this event offers a gathering place for those to reflect, support, and honour both the survivors and lost lives of residential schools. Opening with a traditional ceremony at the Orillia Public Library and Orillia Opera House courtyard, gatherers will then walk in support towards Lions Oval.
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Film Screening: Orange Shirt Day
Orillia Public Library
Tuesday, September 26 at 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
On Tuesday, September 26, The Orillia Public Library will be hosting a free film screening of “Orange Shirt Day,” honouring 10 years since the day’s first inception by Phyllis Webstad. Learn as she shares the origin story by reliving what it was like growing up in an Indigenous community and attending a residential school as a third generation residential school survivor. No registration is required for this free educational event.
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Elevating Indigenous Voices
Orillia Museum of Art & History
Saturday, September 30 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
On Saturday, September 30, the Orillia Museum of Art & History will be hosting a one-hour presentation focusing on the work of Ziigwen Mixemong, an Anishinabek youth from Beausoleil First Nation. Performed by her mother, Kelly Brownbill, it will include excerpts from plays, poems, and children’s books writte by Ziigwen and Kelly that focus on the issues facing Indigenous people in our area, while underlining the importance of an ancient culture in our lives today. No registration required.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons
Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons, Midland
Saturday, September 30 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Sainte-Marie will begin with a ceremony honouring survivors of residential schools. On this day of reflection and commemoration, the site’s historical interpreters will not be in costume. This is an opportunity to listen and learn as we all continue the journey of truth and reconciliation. Indigenous speakers and knowledge keepers will help educate guests and build cultural understanding.
Storytime and Craft
West Orillia Sports Complex, Orillia
Saturday, September 30 at 10:30 a.m.
Registration required*
On September 30th, The City of Orillia will be hosting a Truth and Reconciliation Storytime and Craft for participants over the age of 3. This program is run by an Indigenous instructor who will read “The Sharing Circle” by Theresa Meuse & Arthur Stevens with discussion and teachings. Participants will leave this program with their own personalized dreamcatcher and knowledge.
More Resources
For more information and educational resources on local Indigenous initiatives, history, and heritage within our region, please visit the City of Orillia’s Indigenous Initiatives webpage.
Indigenous InitiativesLearn how Indigenous experiences contribute to reconciliation with Destination Indigenous Canada
Indigenous Initiatives