Robert Bernard (middle, back row), of We’koqma’q First Nation, was the guest speaker at a ceremony held at the Inverness Ceilidh Trail CB Club park in Inverness on Monday, recognizing national Truth and Reconciliation Day.
October 2, 2024
-by Tessa LeBlanc
September 30th is a day to honour those who suffered during the time of residential schools; to pay respect to them, their families, and communities. We reflect on the painful history behind it and the ongoing effects.
Orange Shirt Day was first formed in 2015 to create awareness of the individual, family, and community intergenerational impacts of Indian Residential Schools, and to support the truth that every child matters.
Inverness County celebrated on September 30th, yet schools showed their support on Friday, the 27th.
Speaking to Deanna Gillis, Communications coordinator, for the Strait Regional Centre for Education, she said, “National Day for Truth and Reconciliation provides an important learning opportunity for all of us in the education system to take time to pause and reflect; and have important conversations about our shared history and the generational harm caused by residential schools, including here in Nova Scotia.” She also added “In the spirit of peace and friendship, the Strait Regional Centre for Education encourages all people to come together on our journey to reconciliation to support inclusive and safe school environments.”
At Cape Breton Highlands Education Center/Academy, Melissa Hart showed her support as well by welcoming the students with smudging, the ritual of cleaning the energy of a physical space, object, or person.
Orange Shirt Day was a hit in Inverness County, with students and teachers all showing their support and taking a moment to honour those who suffered.
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