Algonquin College Honors National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with Meaningful Events

Algonquin College is marking the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30 with a series of poignant activities and events across its Ottawa, Perth, and Pembroke campuses. The college's commitment to truth, reconciliation, and Indigenous education will be highlighted throughout the day, offering students, faculty, and staff an opportunity to reflect, learn, and participate in meaningful dialogues.

President Brulé to Address College's Commitment to Truth and Reconciliation

President and CEO Claude Brulé will deliver a powerful message emphasizing the college's steadfast dedication to truth and reconciliation. His remarks will underline Algonquin College's ongoing efforts to foster understanding and inclusivity within its community. This address will serve as a cornerstone of the day's events, setting the tone for a meaningful and introspective journey.

The Orange Shirt Story and the Significance of Beading

Professor of Indigenous Education Sarah Wright will shed light on the importance of September 30 as a day of remembrance and reconciliation. She will then read “The Orange Shirt Story” by Phyllis Webstad to children and employees at the Early Learning Centre. The poignant story will serve as a powerful reminder of the legacy of residential schools and the enduring impact on Indigenous communities.

The college will also host an engaging activity where students can create their own orange paper t-shirts, representing the symbolic significance of the orange shirt. These t-shirts will be displayed in the AC Hub, serving as a visible reminder of the day's theme and its connection to the history of residential schools.

Engaging with Indigenous Culture Through Art and Film

The Mamidosewin Centre and the Algonquin Students’ Association are organizing a special screening of the film “Indian Horse.” This powerful film tells the story of a young Indigenous hockey player who experiences the trauma of residential schools. The screening will offer a powerful lens through which to understand the lasting effects of these institutions on Indigenous communities.

Exploring the Sixties Scoop and the Significance of Tebwewin

The day's events will also include a presentation and talking circle led by Elder Aimee Bailey and Sherry Dion, campus Kokum, on the experience of the Sixties Scoop. This critical period saw Indigenous children forcibly removed from their families and placed in non-Indigenous homes. The discussion will provide valuable insights into this devastating period in Canadian history and its lasting impact on Indigenous communities.

Unveiling the Power of Tebwewin – Truth

A dedicated session will delve into the significance of Tebwewin – Truth. The session will explore the power of reconciliation and the importance of sharing the stories of the residential school system. By confronting the truth of the past, individuals can contribute to the journey toward reconciliation and healing.

Student Commons: A Hub of Engagement and Reflection

The Student Commons will serve as a central gathering space for various activities. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., attendees can participate in a thoughtful activity, the Orange Shirt Day ReconciliACTION Pledge Tabling. Here, individuals can express their personal commitment to truth and reconciliation by signing a pledge to support the ongoing work of reconciliation. This symbolic act emphasizes the importance of collective action in creating a more just and equitable future.

Sharing Anishinàbe Algonquin Language and Culture

Throughout the day, videos showcasing the beauty and richness of the Anishinàbe Algonquin language will be displayed. These videos will include greetings, common phrases, the Seven Grandfather Teachings, and expressions of healing and understanding. The language is a vital part of Indigenous culture and its preservation is crucial for ensuring the continuity of generations to come.

Leaving a Lasting Mark: Truth and Reconciliation Art Installation

The day's events will culminate in a powerful community art initiative. The President's Office, Indigenous Initiatives Office, and the AC Hub are collaborating on the Truth and Reconciliation Art Installation at The Canadian Library. This event will take place at the AC Hub from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and will offer participants an opportunity to contribute to a meaningful and impactful art project that symbolizes the importance of truth, reconciliation, and healing.

This art installation will serve as a lasting reminder of the day's message, symbolizing the commitment of Algonquin College and its community to reconciliation. The installation will be on display for all to see, serving as a constant reminder of the ongoing journey toward truth and reconciliation.

Algonquin College's Ongoing Commitment to Reconciliation

Algonquin College's commitment to truth and reconciliation extends beyond the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The college continues to offer resources and support to Indigenous students, faculty, and staff. The college is also actively working to incorporate Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into its curriculum and programs. Through these efforts, the college aims to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment that respects and values Indigenous culture and heritage.

The events taking place on September 30 represent a powerful step towards fostering understanding and reconciliation. By engaging in these meaningful activities, individuals can contribute to a more just and equitable future for all Canadians.