The City of Brampton reaffirms its commitment to reconciliation and healing, as it prepares to mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day on September 30, 2024. These days serve as a solemn reminder of the devastating legacy of the residential school system and its lasting impact on First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities across Canada.
Residents are encouraged to join a series of events and activities organized by the City to honor the lives lost, support survivors, and work toward meaningful reconciliation.
Event Highlights:
- Proclamation Reading
A public reading will officially declare September 30 as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day in Brampton.
Date: Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Location: Brampton City Hall, 4th Floor, Council Chambers
Time: 10:00 AM - Orange Shirt Sales
Orange shirts will be sold in support of Indigenous businesses, commemorating Phyllis Webstad’s story and the experiences of residential school survivors.
Date: Thursday, September 26, 2024
Location: Garden Square, 12 Main Street North
Time: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM - Every Child Matters Flag Raising
A public flag-raising ceremony to honor the children who never returned home from residential schools and the resilience of survivors.
Date: Friday, September 27, 2024
Location: Brampton City Hall, 2 Wellington Street
Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM - Discover Turtle Island: A Storytime Adventure with Rabbit and Bear Paws
An Indigenous puppet show for children, sharing traditional stories and cultural teachings. Limited spaces available; registration required.
Date: Friday, September 27, 2024
Location: Cyril Clark Theatre, 20 Loafer’s Lake Lane
Time: 6:00 PM to 6:45 PM - Kids Beading Workshop with Katie Longboat
Indigenous artist Katie Longboat from Six Nations of the Grand River will lead a beading workshop teaching traditional techniques and their cultural importance. Registration required.
Date: Saturday, September 28, 2024
Locations:- Mount Pleasant Village Library: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Four Corners Library: 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
- Clock Tower Lighting
Brampton’s City Hall Clock Tower will be lit in orange to remember the children and honor survivors.
Date: Monday, September 30, 2024
Location: Brampton City Hall, 2 Wellington Street - Brampton Transit Commemoration
In a show of support, Brampton Transit buses will display messages of remembrance on their destination signs.
City’s Commitment to Reconciliation:
Since establishing its Equity Office in 2021, Brampton has worked to foster relationships with local Indigenous communities. The Senior Advisor of Indigenous Relations continues to guide these efforts, ensuring that City decisions respect Indigenous cultures and heritage.
Quotes:
- Mayor Patrick Brown: “The City of Brampton is committed to acknowledging the painful legacy of residential schools and supporting our Indigenous communities on their healing journeys. As we observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, we encourage all residents to reflect on the importance of these days and take action towards reconciliation. By working together, we can build a future rooted in mutual respect, understanding, and justice.”
- Councillor Rowena Santos: “This day is a vital part of our journey toward healing and justice for Indigenous communities. Brampton is committed to learning from the past, acknowledging the truth, and working toward meaningful change. Our collective actions today will shape a better future for all.”
- Councillor Paul Vicente: “Reconciliation is a responsibility we all share. By listening to survivors, educating ourselves, and participating in these events, we contribute to the healing process. The City of Brampton stands united with our Indigenous communities and will continue to support efforts toward justice and reconciliation.”
- Chief Administrative Officer Marlon Kallideen: “As an organization, we recognize and acknowledge our responsibility in advancing reconciliation efforts within our city and workplaces. We are committed to providing our employees with learning opportunities that deepen their understanding of Indigenous histories and the ongoing impacts of colonization. Through these efforts, we can contribute to meaningful, long-lasting change in the community and beyond.”
What You Can Do:
The City of Brampton encourages residents to honor the survivors of residential schools by:
- Listening to survivors’ stories
- Reading the Orange Shirt story with your family
- Watching Phyllis Webstad’s story on YouTube
- Donating to organizations that support survivors
For more information on the City’s reconciliation efforts, visit the City of Brampton Equity Office.
Additional Resources:
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
- Calls to Action
- The Survivors Speak
By engaging with these events and resources, Brampton aims to foster understanding, healing, and a path toward reconciliation for future generations.