Today, the City of Brampton observes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, to confront the tragic legacy of Canada’s residential school system and to remember the children who never returned home, while honouring survivors, their families, and communities.
In solidarity and respect, a flag-raising ceremony was held yesterday at Brampton City Hall, and beginning today, flags will be flown at half-mast across city facilities. The day is intended as a moment of remembrance, reflection, learning, and meaningful action.
As part of Brampton’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation, earlier this month the city officially unveiled the renaming of two parkettes, guided by Indigenous voices and community input. The new names—Mashkiki (pronounced mash-kee-kee), an Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) word evoking our connection to the land and the strength of Mother Earth, and Bangan (ban-gun), meaning “peaceful, quiet” in Anishinaabe—reflect both a deeper relationship with the land and a recognition that reclamation of Indigenous place names is part of healing.
“In remembering the children, in honouring survivors, we also commit ourselves to doing better,” said Mayor Patrick Brown. “Today is not just a symbolic observance—we must continue to listen, learn, and act. We dedicate ourselves to working hand in hand with Indigenous communities as Brampton builds toward a future grounded in truth and justice.”
Councillor Rowena Santos added, “By renaming these parks and raising the flags, Brampton is showing that reconciliation is more than words. It’s transforming how we see and acknowledge the land we share—and centring Indigenous voices in our city’s identity and memory.”
City staff and the Equity Office engaged Indigenous community members through focus groups and consultations in April 2024 to gather perspectives and co-create meaningful names. These renaming initiatives align with Brampton’s Corporate Strategic Plan and the city’s commitment to developing and fostering Indigenous relations.
The City encourages all residents and organizations to take part in the day’s observances—whether attending ceremonies, participating in educational events, or engaging in personal reflection. Resources on the history of residential schools, survivor testimonies, and the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission are available through the City’s website.
