National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada. The day aims to raise awareness about the history of residential schools, promote healing, and encourage understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures. 

The staff and students of Medicine Hat Catholic Board of Education recognize and understand the significance and purpose of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

In preparation for this day, schools have various faith-based events and activities planned to educate our staff and students regarding the events that transpired within residential schools.

"There will be a focus on age appropriate student learning, raising awareness of the impact of residential schools, honouring the experience of survivors, their families and communities and building and supporting cultural awareness." says Colin Desnoyers, Associate Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction. "We recognize that our students will lead the future in understanding the horrible actions of the past and are committed to educating and guiding future generations to ensure those injustices do not happen again.".

Education and reflection in our schools during the month of September

Several Medicine Hat Catholic Schools are participating in "10 Days of Truth and Reconciliation", a powerful tool designed for teachers to use in the days leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, September 30th. Each day, there is a suggested, age-appropriate resource to use/show/discuss/work on in class. The resources are designed with learning progression in mind.

On Tuesday, September 30, each of our Catholic schools will be recognizing this significant day with school-based activities and education initiatives. 

We encourage everyone to wear orange on Tuesday, September 30.

Visit our division Facebook and Instagram pages for educational content related to truth and reconciliation this month. 

Why Wear an Orange Shirt?

Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots initiative that stems from the story of Phyllis Webstad, a residential school survivor, whose new orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at a residential school. Orange Shirt Day is intended to raise awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters”.

The orange shirt is a symbol of the loss of cultural identity, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.

A Prayer for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Loving God, our Creator, help us to be living signs of Your healing love.

Open our hearts to respect, to welcome, and to include one another. Strengthen us as we walk forward together. God of truth, let honesty guide our steps along the path of truth and reconciliation, of healing and friendship. Grant us wisdom to recognize and celebrate the beautiful gifts of Indigenous cultures. May we go forward in humility, as the children of One Creator and loving members of the family of God.

Amen.