This message is sent on behalf of Tara Koski, dean, Students.                                                                             

On September 30, Durham College (DC) recognizes Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. DC is committed to reconciliation, with the goal of building respectful, reciprocal relationships that will contribute to better educational outcomes for all students.  

Recognizing reconciliation requires genuine efforts to address the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous communities, and education plays a pivotal role in this process. Below are some opportunities to help our DC community learn more about the history of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples, and ways to take meaningful steps towards reconciliation.    

• Attend Recognizing Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 

Friday, September 29, 10:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 

The Rotary Global Classroom in the Centre for Collaborative Education (CFCE 145), in-person and online  

In partnership with Ontario Tech, DC students and employees are invited to hear from speakers Kevin Lamoureux, award winning scholar from the University of Winnipeg; Elder Dorothy Taylor, a Mississauga Ojibwe Elder from Curve Lake First Nation known for her work and traditional teachings about the sacredness of water; and Elder Dr. Shirley Williams, who is Midewiwin and a member of the Bird Clan from the Wikwemikong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island. 

Read the full agenda and register online.  

• Complete the Indigenous Histories and Reconciliation Learning Course.
• Learn more about the importance of Land Acknowledgements.
• Take some time to learn about the Naanaagide’endamowin Courtyard near the Centre For Collaborative Education at the Oshawa Campus and to explore the QR Pathway for Pause and Reflection.
• Explore the Maamwi Hub from College Libraries Ontario. This learning hub is inspired by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action to ensure that the 24 Colleges of Ontario lead in the education of staff and students on the diverse Indigenous histories, cultures and current Indigenous worldviews.
• Check out our Indigenous Library Resources, and our research guide on Indigenous Studies. Explore hundreds of Indigenous Studies videos through Curio, including content for children. Discover Indigenous-made animations and films on the transmission of Indigenous knowledge, practices and traditions from the National Film Board of Canada. And dig into CAN-CORE AV’s special collection of video series and documentaries produced by Indigenous filmmakers or starring Indigenous peoples from across Canada.
• Wear orange in support of this day. Orange shirts from an Indigenous maker are available for purchase in the Campus Store at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses.