This message is being shared on behalf of the Suswaaning Endaajig: First Peoples Indigenous Centre.
On Monday, September 30, Durham College (DC) will recognize Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
DC is committed to reconciliation, which requires genuine efforts to address the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and communities. Education plays a pivotal role in this process. The Durham College Library has curated a collection on Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge, heritage, rights, and histories. More resources are available here.
Leading up to and on September 30, there will be a number of events and initiatives presented by the First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC). By taking part, DC students will learn more about the history of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples, and take meaningful steps towards reconciliation.
Schedule
“Métis Hunt for Justice: The Powley Story” webcast, Thursday, September 19, noon to 1 p.m. – To recognize Powley Day, FPIC will host a webcast of this documentary in the Centre for Collaborative Education (CFCE) Room 141. You can also register to watch online.
Orange Shirt display, September 23 to 30 – Orange shirts will be on display in Oshawa (The PIT) and Whitby (Don Lovisa Building atrium), with information provided to help our community learn more about the history and meaning of this day. You can also express your support by purchasing an orange shirt at the Campus Store.
‘Healing Through Food’ panel discussion, Tuesday, September 24, 2:30 – 4 p.m. – Two Indigenous Chefs will join us at the Whitby Campus (W. Galen Weston Centre for Food, Room B101) for a panel discussion on the healing properties of food within the Indigenous context. All are welcome to attend.
FPIC ‘Reawakening’, Friday, September 27, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Elder Gerard Sagassige will return to the space he originally named Suswaaning Endaajig (Nest Away from Home) for a Reawakening Ceremony. Light refreshments will be provided. Centre for Collaborative Education, Room 141.
Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Monday, September 30, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Join us to honour this important day with an event beginning in the Centre for Innovation and Research, Room 102, before moving over to the First Peoples Indigenous Centre (CFCE Room 141). Hear from guest speakers and experience a number of opportunities for education and reflection; make bows of remembrance and gather at the Weeping Willow Tree in the Naanaagide’endamowin Courtyard. In the evening, the DC sign (Oshawa) and Don Lovisa Building atrium (Whitby) will be illuminated in orange.
We hope you’ll join us as we honour and highlight Indigenous cultures, histories and contributions.
