Mayor’s Statement – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day

On September 30, we pause as a community to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, two interconnected observances that call us to remember, reflect, and recommit to the essential work of reconciliation.

This day holds profound significance as we honour residential school survivors, remember those who never returned home, and acknowledge the enduring impact on families and communities across generations. It serves as both a testament to the resilience of Indigenous peoples and a stark reminder of the injustices that demand our ongoing attention and action.

As Mayor of the great City of Oshawa, I am deeply aware of our collective responsibility to confront the continuing effects of colonialism and to forge authentic partnerships with Indigenous communities. True reconciliation demands that we move beyond acknowledgment to meaningful engagement, listening with intention, learning with humility, and acting with purpose to address the systemic barriers that persist today.

Throughout this year we have taken meaningful steps to respect Indigenous cultural practices by amending our Open-Air Burning Bylaw to exclude Sacred Fires during burn bans, recognizing the spiritual significance of these ceremonies. Our second Indigenous Cultural Celebration held at Ed Broadbent Waterfront Park on May 31 further strengthened community connections and provided opportunities for residents and visitors to learn about and celebrate Indigenous cultures. Additionally, we have hosted two Legacy of Hope exhibits at City Hall, bringing vital awareness to both the residential school legacy and the Inuit experience in Canada, ensuring these important stories reach our community directly.

As we mark this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we reaffirm our commitment to walking this path together toward a future where truth is acknowledged, relationships are healed, and every person can flourish with dignity and respect. On September 30, I invite every resident to wear orange in solidarity and to engage meaningfully with the stories and experiences of Indigenous peoples. Let us use this day not only for reflection but as a catalyst for the continued work of building a more just and equitable community.