The North Thompson Aboriginal Cultural Centre Society will be holding the annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30, said executive cirector of the NTACCS, Cindy Wilgosh.
“We hope everyone will join us for this inspiring event in the North Thompson Valley in the territory of Simpcw First Nation. This day is a time to honour the children who died, suffered abuse in residential schools and those that never returned to their families after being forcefully taken away from home. On this day we honour their memory and welcome everyone to join with us as we remember reverently.”
On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation many across Canada gather to honour survivors and their families, marking the emotion-filled day on Sept. 30 as “Orange Shirt Day” since 2013 and promoting the theme of “Every Child Matters.”
Wilgosh shared the meaning of the orange shirt adding, “The orange shirt symbolizes the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem that Indigenous children experienced when pulled from their homes and sent to residential schools.”
Sharing a quote from well-known Canadian residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad, Wilgosh said, "When you wear an orange shirt it’s like a little bit of justice for us survivors in our lifetime, and recognition of a system we can never allow again.”
“It’s always nice to be together, to socialize and enjoy a delicious meal, but we come together this day to remember those innocent children and be sure they are never forgotten. We gather in love and respect in memory of them all,” said Wilgosh.
This year’s event will once again be held at the Dutch Lake Community Centre in Clearwater with doors opening at 10:00 a.m. and the event continuing until 4:00 p.m. An official welcome and land acknowledgement will take place at noon.
There will also be displays, information, music, videos, crafts, stories, delicious food served including bannock and speeches by invited guests.
You must pre-register for the 2:00 p.m. blanket exercise and the 30-minute Reiki and Reflexology appointments. Sign-up sheets will be available at the North Thompson Aboriginal Cultural Centre Gift Shop (#3– 98 Old North Thompson Hwy.) open on Tues., Weds., and Thursday between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Or email: ntaboriginal.ccs@gmail.com
