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Observing NDTR and Orange Shirt Day

September 27, 2024

Dear Parents/Guardians, Students, and Staff:

Ahead of Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the District is sharing an important message with the community about the days and why both are recognized within the District. While both of these observances occur on September 30th and have the same intended purpose to honour the survivors of the residential school system, those that did not return and their families, there are some distinct differences to be aware of.

Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day intended to raise awareness of the individual, family, and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters”. The orange shirt is a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a fulfillment of Call to Action #80, that calls upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to establish, as a statutory holiday to honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.

In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day on September 30th, the District will be lowering the flags at all District locations on this day as part of the province’s half-masting protocol. We also encourage everyone to wear an orange shirt to honour those affected by the residential school system. The orange shirt comes from Phyllis Webstad’s personal story of having her new orange shirt taken away upon her arrival at St. Joseph Mission Residential School, which is a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations, while also promoting the concept of “Every Child Matters”.

As stated in the District Vision, the Langley Board of Education and District fosters an inclusive and nurturing culture, and we are committed to the journey of Truth and Reconciliation. Administrators, teachers, and staff will continue providing learning opportunities for students on our colonial history, residential schools, the long-lasting effects of trauma resulting from the past, and emphasize what actions can be taken as a compassionate learning community moving forward. Education is key to ensuring we, as a society, prevent history from repeating itself. The District encourages everyone to find time this week, on September 30th, and throughout the year to listen, learn, and reflect on teachings around Truth and Reconciliation and Indigenous Worldviews and Perspectives.

Beyond wearing an orange shirt on September 30th, the District recommends doing one or all of the following:

  • Read a book by an Indigenous author. The District’s SORA app or your local library are ways to access literature highlighting Indigenous voices and their lived experiences.
  • Engage with the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions 94 Calls to Action. It can be helpful to ask, “Why are we being asked to fulfill this action and how would society be better for it?”
  • Watch Indigenous-led original programming showcasing First Nations, Métis and Inuit perspectives and experiences throughout the day on CBC Honour National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with CBC | CBC Television.
  • Participate in a community event. On September 30th, the public is invited to gather at the Derek Doubleday Arboretum on 21177 Fraser Hwy, Langley from 6pm – 7:30pm, to reflect, and recommit to reconciliation through guided activities including a candlelight walk. See more information here.

The District recognizes this is a difficult time for many members of our community. Staff will continue to support students, staff, and families who are impacted. If you or someone you know needs additional support, please see the following resources below:

  • Former residential school students can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports from the Government of Canada.
  • Indigenous Peoples across Canada can also go to The Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for counselling and crisis intervention at 1-855-242-3310.
  • Indigenous Peoples can call the KUU-US Crisis Line Society (BC) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-588-8717.
  • Individuals (ages 5-20) can also call the Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT 686868.

Langley is a compassionate community. Please continue to care for one another during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Mal Gill
Superintendent of Schools