September 23 to 27 is Truth & Reconciliation Week, and Monday September 30 is National Day for Truth & Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.  In Coast Mountains School District, learners and staff are encouraged to wear orange on Thursday September 26 noting that Friday, September 27 is a non-instructional day.

National Week for Truth & Reconciliation 2024

During this week, Canadians honour the survivors of residential schools in Canada and the thousands of children who did not return home, along with their communities and loved ones. Schools are engaging this week in ongoing learning about the impacts of the residential school system, and furthering their understanding of the experiences and history of First Nations, Metis and Inuit people.

Learn more about Truth & Reconciliation Week by visiting the National Centre for Truth & Reconciliation (University of Manitoba) at https://nctr.ca/.

Orange Shirt Day

The Orange Shirt Movement began in 2013 when survivor Phyllis Webstad of Stswecem’c Xget’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek / Dog Creek Indian Band) shared the story of her personal experience at St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School near Williams Lake. Now a symbol of hope, inspiration and healing, the orange shirt sends the message that ‘Every Child Matters’.

Learn more about Orange Shirt Day by visiting the Orange Shirt Society at https://orangeshirtday.org/.

Flags at Half-Mast & Observance of National Day for Truth & Reconciliation

To mark Coast Mountains School District’s commitment in observance of the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation on Monday, September 30, all flags within the school district will be lowered to half-mast commencing Friday, September 27 and raised early Tuesday morning, October 1. 

Mental Health Supports

Residential school survivors can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis and mental health support. For support, Indigenous people can visit The Hope for Wellness at https://www.hopeforwellness.ca/ or call the Help Line at 1-855-242-3310.