September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, observed simultaneously with Orange Shirt Day. Both days were established to honour survivors of Canada’s residential school system, their families, and the children who never returned home.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was adopted as a federal statutory holiday in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call To Action number 80. The act of Parliament establishing the holiday received Royal Assent in 2001.

Orange Shirt Day is a popular movement that started in Williams Lake, BC. It was inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad who wore an orange shirt, given to her by her grandmother, on her first day of school. The shirt was taken away from her on that first day.

To this day people wear orange shirts to honour the sentiment that “Every child matters.”

Activities will be held in schools and communities across the Lakeland on and around September 30.

The Lakeland Society for Truth and Reconciliation held a Memorial Round Dance at Beaver River Fish and Game Hall in Bonnyville on September 25. A pipe ceremony and feast were followed by the round dance itself, led by traditional drummers and singers.

With singers and drummers in the centre, the Memorial Round Dance honours residential school survivors and the children who didn’t return. **JEFF GAYE**

Attendees were welcomed with a feast of stew and bannock. **JEFF GAYE**

Members of the Lakeland Society for Truth and Reconciliation organized and hosted the Round Dance. **JEFF GAYE**

Drummers and singers make an important contribution to the observance. **JEFF GAYE**

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Local activities mark Truth and Reconciliation, Orange Shirt Day