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September 29th, 2023
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
As we prepare to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th, we have an opportunity to reflect, acknowledge and consider the role each of us plays in the reconciliation process.
Reconciliation begins with education. It is only once we educate ourselves by truly understanding the legacy left by the residential school system and the resulting intergenerational trauma to Indigenous Peoples, that we can take meaningful action toward reconciliation. We must have the courage and commitment to face truth so there can be reconciliation.
After 165 years, the last Residential School in Canada closed in 1996. For perspective, the Almonte & District High School classes of ~1994-1999 had a reunion this summer. It was largely attended by parents whose kids are in school now. Imagine instead of ADHS, these parents had attended a Residential School. How would their families, careers, health and happiness be different? How would that have changed the vibrancy and success in our community? How would it affect their children?
Some important steps we can all benefit from:
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Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action – www.irsss.ca/downloads/trc-calls-to-action.pdf
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Take a course to learn more about the history of Indigenous Peoples
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Support Indigenous businesses, entrepreneurs, artists and musicians
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Watch a documentary or movie by an Indigenous filmmaker
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Volunteer with an Indigenous or Reconciliation organization
The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (https://nctr.ca/), created from the mandate of the TRC, has extensive archives and collections which can serve as a starting point to learn more deeply about the residential school system and its impact on survivors, their families, and communities.
Earlier this month, Mississippi Mills Council once again supported flying the Every Child Matters Flag at the municipal office for the month of September. Later today, the flags at all municipal buildings will be lowered to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. On what’s also known as Orange Shirt Day, we will wear orange to remember the children who never came home, or came home forever changed.
A community vigil will take place tomorrow evening, beginning at 7 p.m., at The Seven Gifts in Riverfront Park (320 Spring Street). This year, the Mississippi Mills Youth Centre will lead the vigil, featuring readings, music and opportunities for reflection. Join us to light a candle and consider how we can renew our friendships with Indigenous Peoples. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.
The Seven Gifts, based on the Seven Grandfather Teachings of the Algonquin Anishinaabe, is a sacred space for learning about Indigenous culture and values. Achieved through collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists, it is a signal of the relationships and friendships we are working to renew in our community. Thank you to those involved and to Mississippi Mills All My Relations for leading this project and for the important work they do in our community.
The Municipality of Mississippi Mills is committed to keeping the conversation going beyond September 30th. This involves working to understand municipal responsibilities for reconciliation, ongoing learning opportunities for staff and Council, ensuring the Municipality proactively engages with Indigenous residents and neighbours, and telling a complete history of this land.
A National Residential School Crisis Line is available to support former residential school students and their families and communities. Services are available by calling 1-866-925-4419.
Sincerely,
Mayor Christa Lowry
Municipality of Mississippi Mills
