"Today I encourage Whitby residents to join Canadians across the country in reflecting on the lasting trauma that residential schools created for generations of Indigenous people.

It is with deep sadness that we remember the children who were taken away never to return, the families left behind, and the survivors of residential schools.

Moving forward with the work of reconciliation is impossible without first addressing this devastating part of Canada’s history.

For each one of us, this means being willing to listen and learn.

As part of my own learning journey, I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Kim Wheatley, Anishinaabe Cultural Consultant from the Turtle Clan of Shawanaga First Nations Reserve, to discuss the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.

A video of our conversation will be shared today.

On this day – and every day – I encourage Whitby residents to take meaningful action towards truth and reconciliation in their own lives.

Examples could include reading, or re-reading, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, taking a free online course like Indigenous Canada, learning more about the land you live on through websites like  Whose Land, or exploring Indigenous voices through movies, podcasts, TV shows and books including the Whitby Public Library’s Indigenous Canada List.

Today is also Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day inspired by the story of residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad.

Please join me in wearing an orange shirt to honour the children who survived residential schools and those who did not.

More resources and information on truth and reconciliation can be found on the Town of Whitby website."

For media inquiries, please contact:

Jillian Follert
Public Affairs Coordinator, Office of the Mayor
Phone: 289.314.9101
Email: follertj@whitby.ca

Erin Mikaluk
Manager, Communications and Creative Services, Town of Whitby
Phone: 289.314.6913
Email: mikaluke@whitby.ca