TIMMINS - People donned their orange to hit the streets of Timmins today.
The Orange Shirt Day walk hosted by the Timmins Native Friendship Centre (TNFC) drew a crowd.
Since 2013, Orange Shirt Day has been observed to raise awareness and education about the Canadian residential school system. The orange shirt is inspired by survivor Phyllis Webstad, who had her orange shirt taken on her first day at residential school.
This year also marks the fourth annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which was declared a federal statutory holiday in 2021.
The day aims to foster deeper reflection, education and public dialogue about the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
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In Timmins, the day started with an opening prayer and speeches before the community walk through downtown Timmins.
This afternoon residential school survivors are sharing their stories at the centre located at 179 Kirby Ave.
The day wraps up with a closing prayer and drumming ceremony at 4:30 p.m.
A 24-hour national residential school crisis line to support former students and their families is available at 1-866-925-4419.
