(Fort McMurray, AB - September 30th, 2023) The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is of tremendous importance and significance in Canada. It is a day when the country comes together to reflect on the legacy of the residential school system that has impacted countless Indigenous communities. The goal of this day is to acknowledge the harm that has been done to Indigenous peoples, as well as to recognize the ongoing effects of intergenerational trauma.
Fort McMurray Public School Division (FMPSD) stands in solidarity with Indigenous communities across the country as we observe this day. We recognize that reconciliation is about taking action, not just on this day, but every day. FMPSD staff are committed to ongoing education, providing their students opportunities, resources and lessons supporting Indigenous cultures, languages, and histories.
FMPSD students have the opportunity to participate in land-based learning, hear from Elders through the Elders’ Council, and learn about the Seven Sacred Teachings, among other cultural activities. The goal is to prepare the youth to continue the work of reconciliation for future generations.
During this national day of observance, FMPSD joins the rest of Canada in remembering the countless children who never made it home from residential schools and the survivors who have suffered the pain of their experiences. It is a day to acknowledge the residential school system’s impact on Indigenous communities and show support for Indigenous peoples still dealing with this legacy's ongoing effects.
FMPSD Superintendent Annalee Nutter highlights the importance of events like Orange Shirt Day for fostering reconciliation.
“We come together on events such as Orange Shirt Day to honour the Indigenous children who survived residential schools and to acknowledge those who did not. We reflect on the trauma and intergenerational impact caused by the residential school system and vow to work towards reconciliation and healing."
As settlers on Treaty 8 land, FMPSD recognizes the importance of listening, learning, and growing through education. We promise to continue working alongside Indigenous communities towards reconciliation and to remember that Every Child Matters.
For additional information, contact:
Momin Syed
Communications Coordinator
Fort McMurray Public School Division
780-788-8009
communications@fmpsd.ab.ca