A hundred or so individuals, police officers, politicians, business owners and residential school survivor Florence Henshaw gathered in an orange wave in front of city hall over the noon hour.
The one-hour event was a commemoration of Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Organizer Betty Jean Phillips Budden reminded those in attendance the last residential school closed in 1996.
And the effects of the schools can still be seen in communities across Canada today.
It’s a story that tears at the heart. But years later it recognizes the legacy of the residential school system in Canada.
Budden explained the use of an orange shirt as a symbol was inspired by the accounts of Phyllis Webstad.
She added the phrase Every Child Matters is a symbol of stripping away the culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children.
Budden told those in attendance outside city hall the wearing of an orange shirt is appropriate any day.
She noted there were 140 federally run residential schools in Canada that operated between 1867 and 1996.
Just as shocking, about 30 minutes from St. Thomas at Oneida Nation of the Thames, residents cannot drink the water without boiling it.
She had a call to action based on the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission for those gathered for the commemoration.
Budden closed her presentation with a request.
Support is available for anyone affected by the traumatic legacy of residential schools and those who are triggered by the latest reports and recoveries. The Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) can be contacted toll free at 1-800-721-0066. A national Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for former students and those affected. People can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1-866-925-441.
Written by Ian McCallum
