Orange Shirt Day: A Journey Towards Truth and Reconciliation
As we approach Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30th, it is essential to reflect on the significance of this day and its deep-rooted impact on our communities, particularly in relation to the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada. One poignant initiative taking place is the Healing Walk organized by the Pembina Valley's Truth and Action Working Group. This event is not merely a gathering; it is a call to action, a step towards understanding, and an opportunity for healing.
For many of us, learning about Canada’s history is often confined to classrooms or textbooks. Yet, the stories behind these historical events involve real individuals, families, and communities who have experienced profound loss and trauma. Dianne Hildebrand, a member of the Truth and Action Working Group, emphasizes the importance of “re-remembering.” Growing up in a farming community, she was surrounded by classmates affected by the Sixties Scoop, a tragic period when Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their families. Reflecting on her childhood, she admits, “I had no idea.” This lack of awareness underscores the necessity of engaging with history on a personal level, acknowledging the pain and struggle of those who came before us.
Reconciliation requires collective effort and shared understanding. On September 30th, we have a unique opportunity to unite as a community during the Healing Walk in Morden. The event will kick off with a flag-raising ceremony and feature meaningful speeches from community members, including Marge Daniels, a respected elder within the Western School Division. The Healing Walk itself, spanning about eight blocks, is designed to foster solidarity and remembrance. It’s a space where we can come together, reflect, and honor the legacy of those who suffered through injustices such as the Sixties Scoop and the residential school system.
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The path towards reconciliation is not always clear, and it often involves difficult conversations about the past. Hildebrand acknowledges that understanding these historical injustices can be overwhelming, yet she insists that listening to Indigenous voices is crucial. “First of all, we have to learn from Indigenous people. That’s where we have to start,” she states. This perspective encourages us to examine our own knowledge and biases, prompting us to ask ourselves where our understanding of Indigenous matters originates.
Attending events like the Healing Walk provides a tangible way to engage with these issues and foster empathy within our communities. Hildebrand recently attended a book tour for Crossing the River: An Unsettling Memoir by Sandra Hayes-Gardiner, who shares her personal journey as a social worker during a time when Indigenous children were apprehended. The discussions at this event highlighted the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths without being immobilized by guilt. An elder's advice resonated deeply: “Take the guilt out of it. We need to hear the truth.”
Reconciliation is not solely about correcting the past but about building respectful and meaningful relationships moving forward. It is about understanding the different narratives that exist within our communities. As Hildebrand articulates, “The hope is that understanding moves us into action.” This September 30th, let us take this step together, leaving behind feelings of guilt and moving towards a future where we can learn, support, and heal collectively.
As we approach this significant day, let's remember the stories that connect us all, paving the way for a united and compassionate community. Join us in honoring the legacy of Indigenous peoples and embracing the journey toward truth and reconciliation. Together, we can transform our understanding into action and create a brighter future for everyone.
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