The City of Williams Lake will be observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in support of residential school survivors, their families and communities this Friday, September 30th.
The federal statutory holiday provides an important opportunity for reflection as we work toward healing as a nation, and the City encourages everyone to share their stories, to listen, and to engage in events and activities that commemorate this important day.
To honour the day, City facilities and operations will be closed, including the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex.
In partnership with the Orange Shirt Society, the City of Williams Lake encourages everyone to attend the raising of the “Every Child Matters” flag at City Hall at 8 am on Friday, September 30th. This ceremony will include a smudging ceremony, blessing from an Elder, drumming, and songs.
The community is invited to join the events at the Stampede Grounds, including a pancake breakfast, Indian Relay Races, food trucks, drumming, speeches, and survivor sharing. More information can be found on the Orange Shirt Society’s website and Facebook page.
The City of Williams Lake would like to recognize the unwavering efforts of Phyllis Webstad and the Orange Shirt Society in advocating for the national statutory holiday to support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Action number 80, which calls upon the federal government to establish a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour residential school survivors and ensure public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.
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Media Contact:
Greg Sabatino, Events & Marketing Coordinator
gsabatino@williamslake.ca
Phone: 250.392.1770
City Hall: 250.392.2311