Today, the Town of Georgina raised a flag at the Civic Centre in recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Flags were also raised at Ravenshoe Road and Woodbine and in Jackson’s Point. Mayor Margaret Quirk, Members of Council and Town staff joined members of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation and residents for the flag raising and ceremony.

The Town, in partnership with the Chippewas of Georgina Island, is also pleased to announce the future installation of an Indigenous Every Child matters crosswalk on Black River Road near the ferry to Georgina Island.

Earlier this year, the Government of Canada passed legislation to recognize Sept. 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day commemorates the tragedy of residential schools in Canada and their continuing impact on Indigenous communities, and ensures public observation of the history and legacy of residential schools remain a vital component of the reconciliation process.

The Town encourages all residents to use this day for meaningful contemplation or participation in events honouring the occasion.

We acknowledge the Town of Georgina is located over lands originally used and occupied by the First Peoples of the Williams Treaties First Nations and other Indigenous Peoples and thank them for sharing this land. We would also like to acknowledge the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation as our close neighbour and friend, one with which we strive to build a cooperative and respectful relationship.

In partnership with the First Nations University of Canada, the Town of Georgina is rolling out Indigenous awareness training to staff titled ‘4 Seasons of Reconciliation.’ This program provides engaging and inspiring videos, award-winning films, slides, quizzes and a national bonus video library created with Indigenous authors. The online course will provide staff with the concrete tools for building a more inclusive workplace which actively meets and responds to the TRC Calls to Action.

Eddy Charlie is a residential school survivor. He shares the importance of Orange Shirt Day and explains the lasting intergenerational trauma caused to indigenous peoples by residential schools.

Visit the Government of Canada website to learn more about how it’s working to advance reconciliation and renew the relationship with Indigenous peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership.

Former residential school students can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports from the Government of Canada.

Indigenous peoples across Canada can also go to the Hope for Wellness Help Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for counselling and crisis intervention.

Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat at hopeforwellness.ca.

Town Page: Weekly Town information available online.