On September 30, Durham College recognizes Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which is a time to reflect and learn about past and ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and communities.

Orange Shirt Day, an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day, was inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad whose brand new orange shirt was taken away from when she attended her first day at the Mission School at six years of age.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities.

As an education institution, Durham College (DC) plays an important role in advancing Truth and Reconciliation by raising awareness, promoting respect and understanding and fostering learning and collaboration.

To support this, the Durham College Library has compiled a selection of self-directed learning resources leading up to September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.

“By shining a light on the wealth of first-hand stories from Survivors of residential schools, we can all reflect on the historic and ongoing intergenerational trauma the residential school system has had on Indigenous communities, families and individuals, which is an essential part of the reconciliation process,” said Durham College Chief Librarian Catherine Davidson.

Access self-directed learning resources including Phyllis Webstad’s story and books and videos available through DC’s library collection.