Truth and Reconciliation Day

The end of September marks the second annual Truth and Reconciliation Day. This day is a somber occasion of the utmost importance. It honours the numerous lives- children's- lost due to the horrific atrocities of the residential school system. It's entirely unfathomable to imagine an institution in a place that enabled such acts of cruelties to occur, all in the name of Indigenous erasure. Alas, it's a harsh truth that this country has to acknowledge.

Intergenerational trauma is real. For over a decade, Orange Shirt Day has been a time for us to reflect and remember its effect on the Indigenous community and the survivors. Upholding this day means much more than simply donning a coloured T-Shirt. It means staying informed and aware of the prevalence of the discrimination and stigma the Indigenous communities face even today. Instead of ignoring this country's ugly history, we need to learn from it. Doing so is the only way to prevent this heinous genocide. Furthermore, it allows us to be better allies as we stand in solidarity with the Indigenous communities today - and every day.

Let us commemorate Truth and Reconciliation Day by wearing an orange shirt.

- Natalie Kasirye