Statement from Mayor Carter on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day

On September 30, we join communities across Turtle Island in observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. On this day, we acknowledge the truth of residential schools and the intergenerational impacts still felt today. We honour the Survivors, their families and communities, and the children who never returned home. We are also reminded of the injustices that continue to demand our attention and action. The Survivors’ Flag has been raised at City Hall, and orange ribbon memorials are available at various City facilities until October 9 as acts of remembrance, reflection and solidarity with Indigenous communities.

The path toward reconciliation is ongoing and it calls on each of us to listen and act with purpose. Throughout this year, City Council and staff have pursued continued learning and sought opportunities to support Indigenous practices within City facilities. The City hosted its third annual Indigenous Cultural Celebration at Ed Broadbent Waterfront Park and continues to build relationships with Indigenous communities, artists, vendors, facilitators and partners. We are also proud to showcase the artwork of David Beaucage Johnson on new land acknowledgement signage across City facilities and at City Hall. As we continue to move forward with reconciliation, the City remains committed to listening and strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities to help shape the work ahead.

As we mark this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I encourage everyone in Oshawa to take time to learn and reflect on the truths of the residential school system and its enduring impacts. May we honour Survivors and remember the children who never returned home by carrying this commitment forward, not only on September 30, but throughout the year, through respectful relationships and purposeful action toward reconciliation.