September 30th is Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led day to honour the victims of residential schools in Canada. It is also the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a new federal holiday and day of remembrance.
We at Fulbright Canada intend to use this opportunity to reflect on the legacy of residential schools in Canada, the impact they continue to have on individuals, families, and communities, and how we can do our part, however modest, to support Indigenous youth and move forward. Our commitment to Indigenous peoples is unwavering.
Fulbright Canada’s offices will be closed as we take time to honour and remember the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities. I hope our community has the space to participate in National Truth and Reconciliation Day in a meaningful and productive way.
I would like to take a moment to share a story that Candace Wasacase–Lafferty, Senior Director Indigenous Engagement at the University of Saskatchewan and Co-Director of Fulbright Canada’s Honouring Nations Canada, recently shared. I encourage you to read it and use it as a touchstone for your thoughts today. I found it incredibly moving, and I think you will too.
Michael Hawes,
President & CEO, Fulbright Canada