Path to reconciliation: Special programming to mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

An image of Town Hall lit up in orange with the words: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Leading up to September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we have prepared some special programming and activities to help the community learn, reflect, and support the Indigenous community as we remember the devastating impacts of the residential school system. Let’s acknowledge the stolen children, show a sign of respect to them and their families, and support healing in shattered Indigenous Communities across Canada in the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation. We encourage all residents to take a moment to pause as we mark this dark chapter in our history and reflect on Canada's legacy of colonialism. Consider what you can do to reaffirm your commitment to building stronger relationships with all Indigenous peoples as we look to move forward with reconciliation in our hearts, minds and actions.

Between September 23 and 30, our Town Hall and recreation facilities will be lit up in orange, symbolizing our continued support and solidarity. On September 30, flags will be lowered to half-mast to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Join us at the official unveiling of the commemorative Orange Crosswalk
Clarington has taken an important step toward reconciliation by installing a commemorative orange crosswalk outside of Town Hall, at the corner of Church and Temperance streets. We invite you to join members of the Indigenous community, municipal staff, and dignitaries at the official unveiling of the Orange Crosswalk on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at 4 p.m. Learn more.
Join the Orange Ribbon Campaign.
Tie an orange ribbon in the community as a symbol of our collective support for the Indigenous community. From September 20 to 30, visit a Clarington community centre or any Clarington Public Library or museum location to pick up your ribbon.
Complete an Orange Shirt colouring sheet and write down your commitment to reconciliation.
Please join us in honouring the Indigenous children who had to endure the residential school era. Encourage your child or family member to complete an Orange Shirt colouring sheet. Reflect on what you can do to take action to support our Indigenous Communities. Colouring sheets are available online or at Clarington recreation facilities and any Clarington Public Library and Museums and Archives location. Be sure to include your commitment to reconciliation on your colouring page and drop off completed sheets so we can put them on display.

Take a virtual tour of Mohawk Indian Residential School
On Wednesday, September 21, at 6 p.m., follow along on a tour of the former Mohawk Institute (1831 to 1970), the first and longest-running Indian Residential School in Canada. The virtual tour looks at the dormitory building before the onset of restoration work during the Save the Evidence campaign. The tour takes visitors floor to floor and provides historical information with Survivor accounts of their time at the "Mush Hole." After the recorded portion of the tour, participants can ask questions and share comments with a Cultural Interpreter. The tour is presented in partnership with Clarington Public Library, Clarington Museums and Archives and the Municipality of Clarington.
Registration required.
Explore the social media channels of Indigenous communities.
Clarington will continue to share stories of residential school survivors, their families and their communities. We encourage you to read, comment, share and reflect.

Additional information and resources

Help and support resources

Indian Residential School Survivors and Family Hotline: 1-866-925-4419
Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line: 1-855-242-3310
Native Youth Crisis Hotline: 1-877-209-1266