Tuesday, September 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It’s a time to reflect on historical injustices, honour the survivors of Canada’s residential school system and acknowledge the ongoing impacts of this painful chapter in history.
To our Indigenous members within the Faculty, I recognize the emotional weight this day may carry. Please know that resources and support systems are available.
Community reading initiative
To deepen understanding of the historical and contemporary realities of Indigenous Peoples in Canada, I am currently reading Truth Telling: Seven Conversations about Indigenous Life in Canada, a national bestseller by Michelle Good.
Good’s writing is informed by her lived experience as a Cree woman and legal advocate. The book is both enlightening and challenging, urging readers – particularly settlers – to confront uncomfortable truths and engage meaningfully in reconciliation.
Please join me in reading Good’s book. A limited number of free copies are available at the reception desk in JHE 261. Please borrow a copy and return it when finished so your peers and colleagues can read it as well.
Events and educational programming
Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to make time to participate in one or more Truth and Reconciliation events that McMaster is hosting on and around Sept. 30. Review this McMaster News story for in-person and virtual events, educational opportunities and a list of resources.
Events include film screenings and discussions, Indigenous planetarium shows, food forest planting and more. Participation is one important way of showing a commitment to the work required in advancing reconciliation.
As a reminder, as per the course calendar, there are no classes scheduled for Tuesday, September 30.
Orange shirts for sale at The Drain
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is sometimes referred to as Orange Shirt Day. Learn about the significance of wearing an orange shirt and the legacy of Residential School Survivor Phyllis Webstad.
On behalf of the AISES-McMaster Chapter that is focused on advancing Indigenous People in STEM, the Drain (Hatch first floor) is now selling orange shirts for $20. Proceeds from the t-shirt sales will be going toward AISES-McMaster and Moccasin Identifier.
Thank you to those who have already purchased and have been wearing their shirts around campus.
Let us recognize this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with the respect, reflection and engagement it deserves.