Truth and Reconciliation on the Downtown Peninsula

Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation serve as powerful reminders of the history and impact of the Residential school system in Canada. These schools, which operated for over a century, inflicted deep wounds on Indigenous families and communities, causing generations of trauma, loss, and cultural erasure. When we honor Orange Shirt Day, we remember the thousands of children who never made it home, the survivors who carry the memories of their experiences, and the communities who continue to live with the consequences of these policies. It is a day for all of us to acknowledge the past and commit to the ongoing work of reconciliation.

This year we gathered for a special Truth and Reconciliation Lunch, where we had the honor of hearing from John Spence, who shared his knowledge and wisdom with us. His words were a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities and the importance of passing down stories and cultural teachings. We also extend our deepest gratitude to the amazing kitchen team and volunteers who prepared a meaningful meal rooted in tradition, featuring salmon from the Squamish Nation, squash, and corn from the scəw̓aθən (Tsawwassen) and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) territories, kale from the Sto-lo Nation, and other thoughtfully sourced ingredients from Indigenous lands.

As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we carry forward the lessons shared and the spirit of the day by embedding reconciliation into all our programs. Whether it’s through educational events, cultural initiatives, or our commitment to food justice and access, our goal is to build meaningful connections with Indigenous communities and create spaces where stories can be shared and truths can be acknowledged.

This commitment is not new for us; Gordon Neighbourhood House has proudly partnered with Eddy Charlie and Kristin Spray from the Victoria Orange Shirt Day in the past, with the topic of reconciliation being championed by our former Executive Director, Siobhan Powlowski. Their leadership has paved the way for our ongoing dedication to this cause. It is important to remember that the journey toward reconciliation is ongoing and that every action counts.

In this spirit, we look forward to the raising of two totem poles carved by John Spence in the West End. These poles will stand as symbols of cultural resilience and the power of storytelling, reminding us daily of the work that lies ahead. As we strive to build a future founded on respect, healing, and understanding, let us commit to listening, learning, and taking meaningful steps together toward true reconciliation. 🧡

#EveryChildMatters #TruthAndReconciliation