The Town of The Blue Mountains would like to advise members of the public that Monday, September 30, 2024, will mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.
To honour this day, the Every Child Matters flag at Town Hall will be lowered to half-mast on Monday, September 30, at 9:00 a.m. to recognize the victims and survivors of Residential Schools across Canada. At 3:00 p.m., The Blue Mountains Public Library will be hosting a free screening of Wawahte, a powerful hour-long documentary highlighting the stories of residential school survivors.
Throughout the day, residents are invited to participate in the ‘Tie a Ribbon’ program by visiting L.E. Shore Library and Craigleith Heritage Depot to tie a ribbon and honour the memory of children found and those yet to be discovered at residential schools across Canada. The Town also encourages residents to wear orange in recognition of Orange Shirt Day.
“Truth and Reconciliation Day serves as an important reminder to reflect on the ongoing impacts of the residential school system and the resilience of Indigenous survivors, their families, and communities,” explained Mayor Andrea Matrosovs. “As part of our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, the Town is working to create a more inclusive community through our Sustainability Plan, “The Blue Mountains Future Story,” which guides the development of a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategy aimed at advancing reconciliation in Canada”.
For more information about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, visit The Blue Mountains Public Library website for a variety of resources highlighting Indigenous voices, cultures, contributions, and traditions, as well as information on the residential school system and Orange Shirt Day.
Support Services Available
- The National Residential School Crisis Line: This national crisis line is available 24-hours a day to provide support for former students and those affected. Access support and crisis referral services by calling 1-866-925-4419.
- The Hope for Wellness Help Line: Indigenous peoples across Canada can connect with The Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week for counselling and crisis intervention. Call the toll-free help line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat.
For more information, please contact:
Andrea Matrosovs
Mayor
(519) 599-3131 ext. 406
