Marking the first National Truth and Reconciliation Day
September 30th, 2021
On September 30th, Canada marked the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, a day to recognize, acknowledge and raise awareness about the residential school system in Canada and the resulting impact on children, youth, families, and communities. Woodview staff wore orange shirts* and shared messages of support and ally-ship with the Indigenous community. Woodview’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee shared Indigenous resources with staff, inviting everyone to take time to learn about and reflect on this tragic history as a vital component of the reconciliation process. Here is a selection:
Phyllis Webstad – On Orange Shirt Day
Learning
The L.I.F.E. day program in Hamilton spent time learning about #OrangeShirtDay with participants. As a meaningful act of reconciliation, the Halton Autism Services & Woodview Learning Centre teams have committed to reading all 94 Calls to Action. Lindsey Court, WLC Program Manager says, “Woodview Learning Centre school is committed to reflecting, learning, unlearning, and showing up.”
If You Need Support
For those who need support, the Hope for Wellness Helpline offers immediate mental health counselling 24/7 to all Indigenous peoples across Canada. You can call toll-free 1-855-242-3310 or chat online at https://www.hopeforwellness.ca
Indian Residential School Survivors and Family: 1-866-925-4419
The Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line is available 24-hours a day for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of his or her Residential school experience.
We Are With You 
*Where possible, some Orange Day shirts were purchased from Indigenous business owner G&M Sportswear located at 583 Mohawk Rd, Six Nations (Hagersville) or through Canadian Roots Exchange, “a group of Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth who believe that in order to bridge the gap between Canada’s peoples and work towards reconciliation”.
#EveryChildMatters