Ontario Tech University marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day

Canada’s annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day on September 30 is a time of recognition, remembrance and respect for survivors of residential schools and a day to learn about the lasting impacts these schools have had—and continue to have—on Indigenous communities.

The Ontario Tech community remains dedicated to hearing the voices of Indigenous Peoples as we work toward implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's recommendations and addressing systemic barriers.

The university has declared Monday, September 30 as a meeting-free day to create space for education and reflection on Canada's involvement in, and history of, residential schools. 

As we pursue reconciliation and healing, let us honour the lives of survivors, their families and communities, and never forget their stories.       

Events schedule, Ontario Tech resources and how to get involved:

• Sunrise Ceremony with Kathy MacLeod-Beaver and Tim Smoke to express gratitude, and appreciation for a new day.
  • When: Monday, September 30, from 6:45 to 8:30 a.m.
  • Where: 285 Britannia Avenue West, Oshawa (Windfields Farm).
  • The ceremony will begin promptly at 6:45 a.m., which will include a ceremonial fire, sacred medicines and honouring of water and berries. Traditional tobacco will be available for offerings and light refreshments will be provided after the ceremony in Mukwa's Den (Shawenjigewining Hall, Room 217).
  • Register by Wednesday, September 25 using the Sunrise Ceremony web form.

• Reconciliation in the Institution professional development workshop.
  • When: Thursday, September 26, from 11 a.m. to noon
  • Where: Virtual
  • Explore the meaning of reconciliation and its relevance in the university setting.
  • Register using the Reconciliation in the Institution web form.

• Campus Library:
  • National Day of Truth and Reconciliation research guide
  • Indigenous Library Resources virtual collection
    
    
• Lighting up for Orange Shirt Day: The exteriors of Shawenjigewining Hall and Bordessa Hall will be illuminated orange during the evenings of Sunday, September 29 and Monday, September 30.
  
  
• Purchase an Orange Shirt from an Indigenous Education and Cultural Services approved vendor:
  • Bawaajigewin Aboriginal Community Circle, a local non-profit organization and partner of Ontario Tech
  • Nish Tees
  • Ontario Tech Campus Store