(September 30, 2024 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) – Today, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak acknowledged the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, and is urging the Government of Canada to advance progress towards fully implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) 94 Calls to Action.
Orange Shirt Day began in 1973 when six-year-old Phyllis Webstad entered St. Joseph Mission Residential School wearing a new orange shirt, which was forcibly taken from her and replaced with the school’s institutional uniform. Her story has inspired a national movement to acknowledge the experiences of residential school Survivors.
“On September 30th, we wear orange to remember that Every Child Matters and to bring awareness to the painful legacy of residential schools that attempted to erase First Nations children of their language, culture, and identity,” said AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. “Despite attempts made to erase our people, we have remained resilient. Our cultures, languages, and traditions are not just surviving; they are thriving,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak.
In 2015, the TRC released its Final Report, outlining 94 Calls to Action, calling on all levels of government to work together to readdress the harm caused by residential schools and advance reconciliation.
“Nine years later, the delay in implementing these Calls to Action are significant concern for First Nations and there is substantial work yet to be done,” said AFN National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “Additionally, Call to Action #77, which demands the release of residential school records to support efforts to locate our lost children and provide information to Survivors, has yet to be fulfilled.”
“I encourage all Canadians, institutions, and organizations to participate in events and activities that promote awareness, educate, and reflect on the history and legacy of residential schools. The journey towards reconciliation is ongoing, and we urge all levels of government to fulfill its commitments by fully implementing the TRC’s 94 Calls to Action, supporting Survivors, their families, and all First Nations across Turtle Island. By doing so, we can advance and uphold First Nations’ rights and ensure an equitable future for the next generations,” concluded AFN National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak.
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
Contact Information:
Jamie Monastyrski
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
[email protected]
(613) 612-7229 (mobile)
Ayman Hammamieh
Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
[email protected]
343-573-1771 (mobile)