National Truth and Reconciliation Day is on September 30th and will be commemorated with a statutory holiday on Monday, October 2nd. This day is an opportunity to reflect on the history and legacy of Canada’s devastating residential school system. In their chosen professions, Sprott Shaw staff, students, and graduates interact with people of diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous people. Understanding how residential schools have and continue to impact Indigenous communities is crucial to understanding the context of the Indigenous people we work with, educate, treat, serve, or care for. Leading up to that day, we will be offering the following events to support all staff and students in their journey towards reconciliation.
Participate in a History and Impact Webinar in September
The Indian Residential School Survivors Society will be offering 2-hour webinars that include a presentation on the History and Impacts of Residential Schools, and a Survivor Testimony. There are two different times available in September, please RSVP by September 11th which time works best for you. The webinar times and registration button are listed below:
September 19th : 1:30pm – 3:30pm
September 21st : 11:00am – 1:00pm
We Haven’t Even Begun the Conversation: Establishing Meaningful Relationships
On Monday, September 25th, 12:30-1:30pm, we are honoured to have the opportunity to speak with UBC Faculty of Medicine’s Director of Indigenous Engagement, Derek Thompson – Thlaapkiituup, from the diitiidʔaaʔtx̣ – Ditidaht First Nation, one of fourteen Nuuchahnulth communities along the west coast of Vancouver Island. Thlaapkiituup is one of four recognized Ha’wiih – Hereditary Chiefs in Ditidaht, and has previously served as the Health Director for the Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre at Cowichan Tribes in Duncan. Please join us by registering below:
Show Your Support by Wearing Your Orange Shirt
On the last Thursday of every month, as well as Friday, September 29th, we invite you to show your support for Indigenous communities by wearing your orange shirt. Please order your orange shirt by Monday, September 18th with your campus for delivery in time for Truth and Reconciliation Day. All proceeds go to the Orange Shirt Society.
Reflect on Reconciliation With Your Local Indigenous Community
On September 29th and 30th, there will be many events in your local community to commemorate National Truth and Reconciliation Day. These events allow for reflection, stories to be shared, and an opportunity to connect with the Indigenous peoples who are your neighbours and longtime stewards of the land. Sample events include the Intergenerational March at UBC, activities at Arts Umbrella, and many more across the province.
