The following message includes content that may trigger strong emotions, especially for those with lived experience. It is recommended that we all check in on ourselves and access the resources available to us to ensure we are taking good care of our mental health. Access mental health and self-care resources here. 

Tomorrow, September 30th, is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which grew from the Indigenous-led grassroots movement, Orange Shirt Day: Every Child Matters. The flags on RRC Polytech Campuses are lowered today and tomorrow as the Polytech observes Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. 

Despite its status, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is not just another holiday. It’s an opportunity to pause our typical routines to reflect and learn. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation brings to light everything that was taken from Indigenous Peoples through the horrific history of the Canadian Residential School System: culture and traditions, family, language, and sovereignty. 

Visibility of support is essential. It affirms the truths of Survivors, their families and communities. Wearing an Orange Shirt sends a message, and healing happens when the whole community says: ‘I see you.’ Affirming the truth is essential to walk the path of reconciliation. 

Orange shirts designed by Indigenous artists are available to purchase at the Campus Store year-round at RRC Polytech. Every design holds a story from the perspective of each artist that reflects on the meaning of Truth and Reconciliation, the legacy of Residential and Day School Survivors, and healing from the intergenerational effects of trauma through community. 

All proceeds from Orange Shirt Sales will support the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award when applications open in January 2027. Mínwastánikéwin is an Ininimowin word meaning to set it right – the award, valued at $1,000, aims to alleviate some of the financial burden Indigenous students experience each year. 

Peatr Thomas, who designed the first Orange Shirt in 2022, said that the first design encourages us to “remember and pay tribute to the young ones lost. Remember to honour the survivors.” Each design since then has paid homage to the sentiment in their own ways. 

Since 2023, the shirts have been produced in partnership with Red Rebel Armour, owned and operated by Indigenous Social Entrepreneurship grad Sean Rayland-Boubar of Peguis First Nation. 

Staff and students are encouraged to wear Orange Shirt on campus today to demonstrate your commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. Take the opportunity this week to participate in community events tomorrow or join us at any one of the events hosted on campus today, Thursday, and Friday. 

The flags on campus will be lowered today in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and will remain lowered in observance of the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two Spirit People on October 4. 

Take good care of yourself and those around you and remember to reach out for support if you need it. 

Jamie Wilson on behalf of RRC Polytech Executive