Red Deer Public Schools' 22 schools mark Truth and Reconciliation Day Sept. 29

Red Deer Public Schools says students and staff will recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 29, a day ahead of the official date. All 22 schools in the division will take part in activities including classroom lessons, discussions, art projects and other learning opportunities, along with wearing orange shirts.

Hayley Christen, Learning Services Coordinator with the division, said Sept. 29 gives schools an important opportunity to make space for conversations about reconciliation, listen to Indigenous perspectives and help students understand why reconciliation matters. She noted the learning continues throughout the school year, not just on this date.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is observed nationally on Sept. 30 and honours First Nations, Inuit and Métis children who did not return home from residential schools, as well as survivors, their families and communities. The date coincides with Orange Shirt Day, which tells the story of Phyllis Webstad, whose new orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at a residential school.

Heather Steele, another Learning Services Coordinator with Red Deer Public Schools, said the division's responsibility is to ensure students understand the history of the country, hear Indigenous voices and build an understanding of what reconciliation can look like in their own communities.