Greater Victoria, BC.; Regional Mayors of Greater Victoria’s 13 municipalities are committed to honouring the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, and recognizing the impacts on their families and communities.
This year, the 13 municipalities took a collaborative approach to explore how to commemorate the tragic and painful history of residential schools on September 30th with Greater Victoria Mayors reaching out together to nine Indigenous communities in the region for guidance, including Songhees Nation, Esquimalt Nation, Sc’ianew First Nation, T’Sou-ke Nation, Tsartlip First Nation, Tsawout First Nation, Tseycum First Nation, Pauquachin First Nation, and Malahat First Nation.
At the request of local Indigenous leaders, flags will be flown at half-mast on September 30th across Greater Victoria municipalities. Additional activities may be organized locally as well. In some cases, municipalities are making financial contributions to events and initiatives led by Indigenous communities.
Plans for the 2022 National Day of Truth and Reconciliation reflect local guidance, recognizing that not all Nations have shared their perspectives. How municipalities observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation will continue to evolve across the South Island in future years as local governments grow their relationship with local First Nations.
How is Colwood recognizing National Day of Truth and Reconciliation
Attend: In addition to flying flags at half mast as requested by the Nations, the City of Colwood is supporting the South Island Powwow at Royal Athletic Park in Victoria on September 30th at 10am. The Powwow is an opportunity to recognize Survivors and their families in the spirit of reconciliation and to celebrate Indigenous resilience, history and cultures. Residents are encouraged to attend as a way to hold space and honour residential school, day school, and 60s scoop Survivors and their families.
Reflect: In Colwood, orange banners will be hung along Wale Road as a visual reminder of the importance of learning more about Indigenous history and experience, reflecting on the impact that has had on generations of families, and seeking opportunities to connect with Indigenous neighbours in thoughtful ways.
Learn: The City will also be exploring options for providing staff and community education opportunities to deepen understanding of Indigenous history and culture, including the legacy of residential schools (as described in Action #57 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action).
Take action: We'll continue to find ways to make Indigenous culture more visible in Colwood through public art, events, places and activities. And Colwood Council and staff will seek opportunities to strenghten relationships and offer time for ongoing conversations.
For more information on local government efforts related to the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, please reach out to individual municipalities.
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Media Contact
Sandra Russell, Communications Manager
srussell@colwood.ca
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