A message from Curtis Ennis, Director of Education, about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

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Today is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The intent of this day, as outlined by the Truth & Reconciliation Commission Call to Action #80 is 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.

Reflect on this truth, as we listen to Geronimo Henry, residential school survivor who attended the Mohawk Institute between 1942 and 1953.

The legacy of residential schools continues to impact survivors and all Indigenous peoples. Locally, the Residential School, the Mohawk Institute in Brantford has impacted many families living in Halton today.

As we engage in learning on this day and beyond, we need to centre First Nations, Inuit and Métis voices. Keep the words of Geronimo and the many Indigneous voices in mind as we honour, remember, reflect and continue to learn about the impacts of Residential Schools. To quote Phyllis Webstad whose residential school experience became the symbol of Orange Shirt Day, “today is a day for survivors to tell their stories and for us to listen with open hearts.
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