September 30 is National Day of Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day). Our office is closed as the GCF staff recognizes and commemorates the history and ongoing horrific legacy of residential schools and the trauma experienced by so many. We reflect on past and present violence and harm against Indigenous peoples through the residential school system, and we honour the survivors and those who never returned home.
In honour of the countless children who did not come home, those who have lived as survivors, and their families experiencing generational trauma, we want to recommit ourselves to focused and ongoing education and promoting and listening to Indigenous peoples. On this day of reflection, let us collectively work to build a future that values respect, reconciliation, and reconnection with each other and our history.
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation has excellent resources to deepen understanding of the legacy of residential schools on their website: https://nctr.ca/
Local and National Resources for Indigenous support:
🧡 Anishnabeg Outreach (AO) – Guelph Employment Office
🧡 Home and Community Care Support Services
🧡 Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre (SOAHAC)
🧡 National Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line (1-866-925-4419)
🧡 Native Women’s Association of Canada
🧡 Hope for Wellness Helpline (1-888-242-3310)