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This message is shared on behalf of Dr. Elaine Popp, President.
Today, Durham College (DC) joins communities across Canada to mark Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Together, we honour the strength and resilience of Survivors, their families and communities, while acknowledging the truths of the harms caused by the residential school system and its ongoing impacts.
For post-secondary institutions, including DC, reconciliation carries a particular responsibility. We play an important role in advancing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action by creating spaces where Indigenous knowledge, histories, and perspectives are respected and valued; in addressing systemic barriers; and in supporting meaningful change.
Our commitment to this work is reflected in our Strategic Vision and demonstrated in our daily actions that bring Indigenous ways of knowing into teaching and learning, amplify Indigenous voices and stories, deepen relationships with Indigenous communities, and create opportunities for employees and students to further their understanding of Indigenous histories and experiences.
Reconciliation asks each of us to continue learning, reflect on the history and legacy of residential schools, and contribute to change. To support your learning, DC offers resources through the DC Library, our online content collection highlighting DC’s commitment to Indigenization, and the free Indigenous Histories and Reconciliation modules.
Members of our campus community are also invited to join the Orange Shirt Day Mini Powwow, hosted by DC’s First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC) at 10 a.m. in the Naanaagide’endamowin “The Art of Thinking” Courtyard. I encourage you to attend, if you’re able, as part of your ongoing reconciliation journey.
In recognition of this important day, the Every Child Matters flag has been raised at both the Oshawa and Whitby campuses, and all flags have been lowered to half-mast.
As we honour Survivors and remember the children who never returned home, let us continue the work of reconciliation, moving from remembrance and reflection to learning and meaningful action. Together, we can help build a future rooted in truth, respect and reconciliation.