Each of us on the Federated Health Charities team uniquely honour the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation & Orange Shirt Day not just on September 30th, but throughout the year. We’d like to share our unique perspectives with you…
“Truth & reconciliation is not a one-day activity, it is an ongoing practice to be engaged in. I honour the National Day of Truth & Reconciliation by using it as a check-in, or audit, for how I have been doing this work throughout the year, both personally and professionally. Have I continued to learn, to advocate, to engage, to communicate, and make necessary changes? And what are my active plans to continue to do so for the coming year. Truth & reconciliation is not passive, it is active work, and I honour this day by checking in with myself to honestly assess my current and future engagement in it.”
– Sarah Wood, Executive Director
“I don’t focus on one day. I have actively participated in the Moose Hide Campaign (Moose Hide Campaign | An Indigenous led grassroots movement to end gender-based violence, and started the Moose Hide Campaign at the high school in my community and ensure that the school holds recognition, awareness, and education of Indigenous culture and historic events. I seek out allyship & growth opportunities that include learning from the lived experiences and teachings of my child’s partner and their family. The San’Yas: Indigenous Cultural Safety Training I took still helps me openly discuss the horrors of “Indian Hospitals”, residential schools, and the historical views and positions that deeply hurt the Indigenous people and culture. Our family visits Curve Lake First Nation regularly and appreciates the museum, education centre and art gallery. Recently, I had the rare privilege to learn from Phyllis Webstad, an Indian Residential School Survivor whose personal narrative led to the creation of Orange Shirt Day Phyllis’ Story – Orange Shirt Society (orangeshirtday.org).”
– Michael Giese, Campaign Support Lead
“Throughout my career, my work has given me valuable insights into Indigenous claims, needs, and perspectives. In one instance, I recall the benefit of collaboration during a mapping exercise with our Indigenous partners. Ensuring that everyone’s voices and perspectives were heard and incorporated, highlighted for me the importance of my personal commitment to ensure there is inclusivity in the interactions and discussions I’m engaged in.”
– Elizabeth Fawcett, Communications Lead
“In 2021 on the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation I helped paint the 216 rocks orange that my small community gathered (one for each Indigenous child buried in a mass grave in Kamloops plus one extra for all those still missing). The image of that orange rock pile is forever etched in my mind and heart, and remains my personal ‘call to action’ to do something and to always participate. This year, I joined the many recognition events in my community: a flag raising ceremony with Chief Ted Williams of Rama First Nations; a traditional beading techniques workshop to gain a deeper appreciation for Indigenous culture and artistry by making a beadwork orange shirt pin; and the 4th Annual Community Walk & Gathering in partnership with the Orillia Native Women’s Group and local urban indigenous organizations.”
– Wanda Minnings, Communications Lead
