A number of events are planned for Orange Shirt Day and the inaugural National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Orange Shirt Day was inspired by Phyllis Webstad's story. Webstad was six years old when she arrived at a residential school and had her orange shirt taken away.
Sept. 30, people are encouraged to wear orange to honour residential school survivors, their families and those who never made it home.
An Orange Shirt Day walk starts at 11 a.m. at the Timmins Native Friendship Centre. It will head down to Balsam Street, Third Avenue and Cedar Street before returning to the centre. COVID-19 protocols like wearing masks and social distancing will be in place.
After the walk, there will be a guest speaker sharing their experience of residential school, a sacred fire, tea and bannock.
There's a new crosswalk to commemorate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation downtown Timmins at the intersection of Third Avenue and Pine Street South. It's being officially unveiled at 10 a.m.
In Matheson, the Wahgoshig flag is being repatriated at the municipal offices. The ceremony starts at 11 a.m. and there will be speeches from Chief June Black and Mayor Gilles Laderoute. Afterwards, Wahgoshig First Nation is hosting a traditional feast at the family lodge from noon to 3 p.m. All are welcome.
How are you marking the first-ever National Day for Truth and Reconciliation? Send your photos or stories to [email protected].
A 24-hour national residential school crisis line to support former students and their families is available at 1-866-925-4419.
