Hamilton, Halton, Niagara mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Wednesday marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada, an annual day of remembrance to recognize the intergenerational trauma of residential schools, the children who never returned home and its impact on history.

Also known as “Orange Shirt Day”, it’s a day to remember Phyllis Webstad, a residential school survivor from British Columbia.

Webstad’s grandmother bought her an orange shirt which was taken away from her. This day of remembrance symbolizes how the system took the culture and freedom of Indigenous children.

Premier Doug Ford and Greg Rickford, minister of Indigenous affairs and First Nations economic reconciliation have released a statement in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and “Orange Shirt Day”.

“Today, we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, to honour the Survivors of the residential school system and remember the children who never returned home. While some might think of residential schools as distant history, Canada’s last Indian Residential School only closed 30 years ago,” the statement said.

“There’s a lot of allies in this city and a lot of really great champions for this work that’s come together and really taken ownership over reconciliation in the city,” says Kate LaForme, director of Indigenous Relations for the City of Hamilton.

“Stay curious and sit in the uncomfortableness of learning the truth and I think that’s really important.”

This day will be marked all around the region with ceremonies and gatherings.

READ MORE: What’s open and closed on Truth and Reconciliation Day in Hamilton, Halton, Niagara regions

In Burlington, the Indigenous Advisory Circle will be hosting an event at Spencer Smith Park at 5 p.m.

Following the opening remarks, there will be a walk for reconciliation and peace. Everyone in attendance is encouraged to wear orange.

In Niagara, there will be an Every Child Matters flag raising and lowering ceremony at Niagara Falls City Hall at 10 a.m.

In Hamilton, a sunrise ceremony began at 7a.m. at the West Harbour James Street Plaza. It will be followed by a morning gathering at 10 a.m.

At 2 p.m. in Hamilton’s Gore Park, there will be a temporary art installation “Right to Repossess” which was created by members of the Bawaadan Collective.

Understanding this day will bring up many emotions for those watching and participating in Wednesday’s events.

Support lines are available including the Hope for Wellness Helpline and the Kids Help Phone.

For the Kids Help Phone, texters can request to speak to an Indigenous crisis responder by texting First Nations, Inuit or Métis.

WATCH MORE: Communities reflect on Canadian history for National Day of Truth and Reconciliation