Orange Shirt Day

September 30th the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

We were proud and honored to be a part of the Saskatoon Indian & Métis Friendship Centre events this year. AFCS offices are in Saskatoon, so it was only fitting for all AFCS staff to take part in the events as volunteers.

Activities at the Friendship Centre began with a pancake breakfast until 11 a.m., with guest speakers beginning at 10 a.m. Families could also take part in face painting, balloon animals and devour some popcorn and cotton candy. Vaccinations were also available if anyone was looking for their 1st or 2nd dose. Drumming and music performance were between 12 and 2pm before a walk of remembrance wrapping up the day.

Donations from the event were given to the United Way.

Sept 30th events in Saskatoon included:

Pancake Breakfast
Face Painting, balloon animals
The Walk of remembrance (thank you to the Saskatoon City Police service for the chaperone)

Circle Drum and music with special guest Mayor Charlie Clarke
Guest speakers
Vaccine Clinic

Orange Shirt Day is recognized alongside a newly formed Day of Truth and Reconciliation from the Federal government.

Friendship Centres have been on a growth trajectory since their inception and the Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan (AFCS) is no different. As we continue to work towards the promotion and advocacy of our Urban Indigenous People in the province, a new beginning is amongst us as well. We take this time to recognize our history, the present and the future.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a federal statutory holiday which was created this year by the Government of Canada to recognize and commemorate the tragic history and ongoing legacy of residential schools, and to honour their survivors, their families and communities. It was established in response to the 80th call to action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action.

This move came shortly after the remains of children were discovered in late May by the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation, on the grounds of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School. More remains have been found since then, and more searches are underway across the country. Originally, the report estimated that 6,000 children died while attending the schools, although many people expect the number to be much higher. Learn more about what you can do for Truth and Reconciliation.