Contributed by Josiane Spyker on behalf of posAbilities’ Diversity and Inclusion Committee

The magnificent autumn is upon us, and it all begins with September. We begin to anticipate that chill air, as trees start to dry up and go through the rebirth process. We are very aware of the changes September brings. As we slowly become aware of these beautiful natural changes, I would like to remind us to also remain aware of the happenings around the world—how can we actively be a part of the changes around us!

A Truth and Reconciliation Toolkit

The Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion has provided us with commemorative and educational guides to what meaningful reconciliation work is for allies, and ways we can commemorate September 30^th. View the toolkit.

From the kit above, we recommend:

• A book to read – Let the People Speak: Oppression in a Time of Reconciliation (Sheilla Jones) and/or Reconciliation in Practice: A Cross-Cultural Perspective (Ranjan Datta).
• A film to watch – Films for Orange Shirt Day (Reel Canada).

Events

Culture Days has set September 30 aside to create space exclusively for events organized to commemorate the day, including those aimed at sharing First Nations, Métis, and/or Inuit experiences and perspectives celebrating the creative and cultural expressions of Indigenous people and communities. Visit this page for events, organizations, resources, and learning opportunities related to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.

Below is a selection of events in BC taking place in September to mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation:

Vancouver

• Sound House: Honouring with Orange | September 29, 2022 | 7 – 9 PM | Museum of Anthropology at UBC
  The evening begins with an orange lantern procession in honour of residential school survivors, and for the children who never made it home. The procession is followed by a powerful showcase of Indigenous dance by two local groups: Tsatu Stalqayu (Coastal Wolf Pack) and Spakwus Stolem.

North Vancouver

• On Truth and Reconciliation with Artist James Harry | September 30, 2022 | 1  – 2:30 PM | Online
  Join artist James Harry for a talk about his most recent piece for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in collaboration with SOS Children’s Village BC. Harry is of Squamish (Swxwú7meshḵ) and European descent and is the recipient of the 2022 Griffin Art Projects Indigenous Studio Award. With Q&A led by Indigenous Curatorial Assistant, Emmett Hanly.

Surrey

• Skookum Surrey Ceremony | September 30, 2022 | 2 – 4 PM | Holland Park
  Join Skookum Surrey for drumming, story sharing, tea and bannock. Everyone is encouraged to wear an orange shirt.

New Westminster

• Spirit of the Children Society Pipe Ceremony | September 30, 2022 | 3 – 6 PM | Westminster Pier Park
  Spirit of the Children Society will host a pipe ceremony at Westminster Pier Park to honour the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. Please wear your orange shirt.

Maple Ridge

• We Stand With You Through Truth and Reconciliation | September 30, 2022 | 10 AM – 2PM | Memorial Peace Park
  PLEA Community Services has put together this event in support with the local indigenous people, the Katzie First Nations, and local community partners to support and bring awareness to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Victoria

• Xe xe Smun’ eem-Victoria Orange Shirt Day: Every Child Matters Ceremony | September 30, 2022 | 10 AM – 12:30 PM | Centennial Square
  Join us for indigenous performances, a flag raising, a minute of silence, and guest speakers sharing their personal experiences with residential schools and reconciliation.

Have you considered joining a Community of Practice Event?

October 4^th from 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

The theme is Activating a culture of belonging – Allyship, inclusive coaching, and intercultural communication. “During our session, we will explore what a culture of belonging and inclusion looks like, learn how to put allyship into action, and discuss practical skills and strategies to help you create inclusive spaces within your organization where every person feels seen, heard, valued and respected.” This opportunity is offered virtually or in-person – seats are limited. Registration details here.

Curious about other days of cultural significance?

Read the September issue of Diversity Ink.

Let’s keep learning, unlearning, and re-learning!