Ontario Tech University to observe Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

On Tuesday, September 30, Ontario Tech University will mark Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The university has designated this as a meeting-free day to create space for education and reflection on Canada's involvement in, and history of, residential schools. 

This day holds deep significance for many Indigenous individuals, families and communities, as they continue to live with the intergenerational impacts of Canada’s residential school system. It’s a time to reflect, honour the survivors and remember the children who never returned home. It’s also an opportunity to listen, bear witness to their stories, and commit to learning and reconciliation.

The university is committed to responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, and dismantling the systemic barriers that continue to affect Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

Let’s take this day to hold space for truth, healing and reconciliation, and to honour the lives, stories and strength of residential school survivors and their families.

Anyone impacted by residential schools and related intergenerational trauma can access immediate mental wellness support:

• Hope for Wellness Helpline: 1.855.242.3310
• National Residential School Crisis Line: 1.866.925.4419

Schedule, resources and how to get involved:

Purchase an orange T-shirt from an Indigenous and Cultural Services-approved vendor:

• Bawaajigewin Aboriginal Community Circle
• Native Arts Society
• Nish Tees
• Ontario Tech Campus Store
• Pre & Peri

 Silent No More: Former Mohawk Institute Residential School virtual tour:

• When: Thursday, September 25 at 12:30 p.m.
• Where: Virtual via Zoom
• Registration required. Space is limited to 50.
• This tour gives the history of the Former Mohawk Institute over its 140-year history. You'll get to see different rooms inside and hear interviews from five survivors.

Lighting up for Orange Shirt Day:

• Bordessa Hall and Shawenjigewining Hall will be lit up with orange lights on Tuesday, September 30 in recognition and support. 

Sugarcane film screening:

• When: Wednesday, October 1 from 6 to 9 p.m.
• Where: Regent Theatre
• Registration required
• This free screening is hosted by Dr. Rebecca Lazarenko and Dr. Zeina Kish from the Faculty of Social Science and Humanities. The film follows the Williams Lake First Nation’s community-led investigation of the Saint Joseph Indian Residential School in British Columbia. 

Truth and Reconciliation self-directed learning resources:

• Read articles, watch videos, view treaties recognition information and more.