Remembering the past, sharing stories and strengthening Indigenous culture
This Wednesday, September 30th, is Canada's National Day for Truth and Reconciliation — a day to remember the children who attended residential schools, honour Survivors and their families, and learn more about the lasting impact of that system.
It's also a day to listen to the stories of Indigenous people and communities.
Brandon Maracle, an Indigenous community leader, says September is a month of remembering and grief, but also one of hope.
For generations, many Indigenous stories — including those of residential school Survivors — were silenced or didn't have a platform.
Maracle says sharing those stories is an important part of understanding the history.
He says those stories are also connected to culture and language, which have been challenged and, at times, lost.
September 30 is therefore about more than looking back. Maracle says holding onto stories, culture and language gives Indigenous people a way to claim their heritage and remind the broader community that Indigenous people are still here.
He also points to the importance of creating space for Indigenous community members to rebuild and strengthen those connections.
September 30 is also Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led movement that raises awareness about the legacy and ongoing impacts of residential schools and honours Survivors.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation offers an opportunity to remember, listen, learn and consider what reconciliation means today.
