The City of Owen Sound wants people to honour residential school survivors, their families, and communities.
Owen Sound officials plan to raise the Every Child Matters Flag to recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Thursday morning at 9:30, and fly it until the end of September.
The flag commemorates the history and legacy of residential schools leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation September 30.
In July 2021, the Government of Canada passed Bill C-5 to make September 30 a federal statutory holiday called the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Call to Action number 80.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which is also known as National Orange Shirt Day, is a day also demonstrates a commitment to reconciliation and affirms that Every Child Matters.
“This day provides an opportunity for all of us to recognize and commemorate the tragic history and ongoing legacy of residential schools,” a statement from the City of Owen Sound said. “It is also a day to honour and remember the survivors, their families, and communities who continue to bear witness to these tragedies.”
There is an Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program, and the National Crisis Line is available to provide support to former residential school students and those affected. Emotional and crisis referral services are available by calling 1-866-925-4419.
