This Monday is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which had previously been known as Orange Shirt Day in BC since 2013.
It is observed as a way for Canadians to reflect, educate and be educated as well as take action for reconciliation for the survivors of residential schools, their families and Indigenous communities impacted by them.
The Capital Regional District (CRD) says that as BC observed the fourth annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, they acknowledge the profound harm inflicted upon Indigenous peoples by Canada’s residential schools and the ongoing impacts and intergenerational trauma that persist within Indigenous communities.
One nearby residential school was the Kuper Island Indian Residential School, which operated between 1890 to 1975.
According to the BC Archives, children who attended this school experienced profound isolation and separation from their families and communities.
The Indigenous children brought to Kuper Island were forbidden to speak their own languages as well as neglected and underfed.
Many also faced sexual, physical and psychological abuse.
According to BC Archives, around one-third of the children at Kuper Island Residential School died of tuberculosis while in the care of the institution.
A 1896 survey revealed that out of 264 former students, 107 had died.
This trauma to numerous Vancouver Island communities, including those within the CRD, continue to haunt survivors and their descendants to this day.
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“To achieve the first step towards reconciliation, we must hear the words of the person who has received many harms, then reflect together on what we receive,” said Eddy Charlie, a survivor of the Kuper Island Indian Industrial School.
“Reconciliation comes when we look at the root, not just the end result of some actions. Hear the words of all who are affected by trauma so you can understand the whole story, and remember you are seeing the effects of trauma. Being a part of the circle is different from being told about it. Sit and hear the stories of the trauma that residential schools caused before making any statements or judgments.”
In an effort to work towards reconciliation with INdigenous communities, the CRD is encouraging all who are able to attend the South Island Powwow this Orange Shirt Day.
Listening to the voices of residential school survivors is a crucial part of our journey toward healing, according to the CRD.
For those unable to attend the South Island Powwow, survivor testimonies can be found through local museums, educational programs and online resources.
The CRD says to show their support of the reconciliation movement, they will be flying the Xe Xe Smun’ Eem “Our Sacred Children” flag for truth and reconciliation from September 27th to October 4th.
This flag was designed by Tsawout artist Bear Horne and emblazoned on this flag are bear to help us follow the right path, the eagle to help us envision a bright future, the hummingbird to keep our mind, body, and spirit healthy and the flower to feed the connection of all these elements.
“We are honoured to be granted the opportunity to fly the Xe Xe Smun’ Eem flag. This flag stands as a powerful symbol of the lasting impacts of residential schools and the resilience of Indigenous communities,” said CRD Board Chair Colin Plant.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Eddy Charlie and Kristin Spray for their unwavering dedication and efforts in raising awareness and fostering reconciliation.”
South Island Powwow
- Where: Royal Athletic Park, 1014 Caledonia Avenue, Victoria
- When: Monday, September 30th at 12 p.m.
