Durham College (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.

Leading up to and on September 30 – Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – there will be a number of events and initiatives presented by the First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC). By taking part, DC students and employees will learn more about the history of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples, and take meaningful steps towards reconciliation.

“Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation are incredibly important because they remind us of the ongoing impact of colonialism and the need for healing and understanding,” said Dr. Kayla Murphy, Director, Indigenous Initiatives and a member of Walpole Island First Nation. “These days provide opportunities to honour the survivors of residential schools and reflect on the history of these institutions. They also encourage us to take concrete steps toward reconciliation, both as individuals and as a community.”

Scheduled Events

Orange Shirt Display
Orange shirts will be on display, with information 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 one of the Campus Stores.
Date: September 23 to 30
Location: Oshawa (The PIT) and Whitby (Don Lovisa Building atrium)

‘Healing Through Food’ Panel Discussion
Join us for a panel discussion with two Indigenous Chefs on the healing properties of food within the Indigenous context. All are welcome to attend.
Date: Tuesday, September 24, 2:30 – 4 p.m.
Location: Whitby Campus, W. Galen Weston Centre for Food, Room B101
Register now.

FPIC ‘Reawakening’ Ceremony
Elder Gerard Sagassige will return to the space he named Suswaaning Endaajig (Nest Away from Home) for a Reawakening Ceremony. Light refreshments will be provided.
Date: Friday, September 27, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Centre for Collaborative Education, Room 141
Register now.

Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Join us to honour this important day with guest speakers and opportunities for education and reflection. The event will start indoors and end with a gathering 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.
Date: Monday, September 30, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Centre for Innovation and Research, Room 102, and First Peoples Indigenous Centre (CFCE Room 141)
Register now.

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The Durham College Library has also curated a collection on Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge, heritage, rights, and histories. More resources are available here.