SEIU-West's First Nations Métis Inuit Committee (FNMIC) would like to share information about the meaning behind September 30th, Orange Shirt Day. Read Phyllis Webstad's story here. This date was chosen because this was the time of year where children were taken from their homes and put into residential schools.
Talking about the Residential School experience in Canada will open the door to global conversations and is an opportunity to learn and engage so we can create bridges with each other for reconciliation. There was a lasting effect of residential schools and the legacy they have left behind. Survivors matter and deserve our support.
Moving forward, this day can set the stage for anti-racism and anti-bullying policies for the coming school year. This is an opportunity for First Nations, governments, and our communities to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and create hope for generations to come.
We call upon humanity to listen with open ears and open hearts to the stories of survivors and their families and to remember the children that didn't make it back home.
Here's a video for members to share in honour of this important day. For a list of events, click here.
In solidarity,
SEIU-West FNMIC