Vancouver Island communities recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Communities across Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast recognized the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation through ceremonies, gatherings, community walks and other events throughout Tuesday.

In Campbell River, the day began at Spirit Square with a Remembrance Walk through downtown, followed by traditional song and dance, food, and storytelling at the Kwanwatsi Big House.

Respected carver, singer and member of the Laxwaxdax’w people of the Kwakwaka’wakw Nation, Yakawidi (Shawn Decaire), says the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation holds deep meaning for him.

 

“The day means more than just talking about Orange Shirt Day. It’s about honouring the truth of what happened to all our people when they were taken from their families and put into residential schools,” says Decaire. “It’s about honouring the stories that never got to be heard, and for the people who are still suffering from the impacts of colonialism.”

 

For Qualicum First Nation chief Michael Recalma, it’s a day to teach people about Indigenous history in Canada and how to be partner when walking the path to reconciliation.

Qualicum First Nation chief Michael Recalma comments:

“We tried for many years to take the Indian out of the child, didn’t work, we’re still here,” Recalma says. “The recognition of us being, still existing, is nice. It’s a long time coming, but still we’re here, and more people are becoming more interested in us as a people.”

Recalma was able to take part in several events and ceremonies throughout Vancouver Island Tuesday, including in Port Alberni and Qualicum Beach.

“It’s pretty humbling to see all of this and to be part of it,” says Recalma. “To be having my presence requested for all of this is nice. It’s a recognition that we’re here, it recognizes me as who I am, an Indigenous leader.

He says the day’s main lesson is, “reconciliation isn’t just about today, it should be every day. Every child matters, every day.”

Elsewhere, Comox Valley Miki’Siew Métis Association and K’omoks First Nation members held Courtenay’s fifth annual Spirit Walk, the Snuneymuxw First Nation hosted ceremonies and cultural activities in Nanaimo, Every Child Matters Marches were held in Port Hardy and in Duncan, while other Cowichan Valley events included teachings and sharing circles.

On the Sunshine Coast, Tuesday’s events included a Truth and Reconciliation walk in the afternoon in Powell River, while the Shishálh Nation held a community walk and feast.

Every year on September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, serves as a call to action to honour residential school survivors, remember the children who never came home, and continue the work of reconciliation.

Click here to view the 94 calls to action as outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

– Article includes files from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, via the Province of British Columbia