National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, September 30

On September 30, and every day, we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.

Students and staff across Grand Erie are encouraged to wear orange shirts as schools engage with resources that help learners understand the complex history and legacy of residential schools. This is a time for all of us to reflect on the ongoing impact of these institutions on Indigenous Peoples, to recognize the strength and resilience of survivors.

This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the publication of the 94 Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. A key focus of Grand Erie’s strategic plan is Indigenous education and relearning Canadian history through a more comprehensive lens — one that considers both settler colonial and Indigenous perspectives. Calls to Action 62 to 65 remind us of our responsibility in education for reconciliation. What do these calls mean to you?

In this year of truth and reconciliation, we are also mindful of significant milestones in our community. The Woodland Cultural Centre will soon reopen the Former Mohawk Institute Residential School after extensive renovations as an Interpretive Historic Site and Educational Resource, marking its 50th year in 2025. Over the summer, many staff members had the opportunity to visit His Majesty’s Royal Chapel of the Mohawks, and we look forward to expanding professional learning opportunities connected to these important sites.

Opportunities for learning and reflection continue throughout the fall, including:  

• October 3, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pauline Johnson Collegiate will host the annual Every Child Matters football game against Delhi District. All students and staff are encouraged to wear orange shirts to the game, with ticket proceeds supporting the Woodland Cultural Centre.
• October 23, the Indigenous Education Advisory Committee and the Grand Erie Parent Involvement Committee will present Chandra Maracle and James Whetung, who will share their perspectives on food as a living expression of relationship with the land, community, and treaty responsibilities.
• October 29, Grand Erie will host an Evening of Storytelling with Gimaa (Chief) R. Stacey Laforme, offering wisdom through story to connect and reflect.

Tomorrow, and every day, may we take time to listen, learn, and act.

Together, we honour survivors, remember those who never came home, and commit to reconciliation through education and understanding.

Dr. JoAnna Roberto, PhD
Director of Education-CEO and Secretary of the Board
Grand Erie District School Board