September 30 is “National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.” This day honours the survivors of residential schools, the children who never returned home, and their families and communities. It is also “Orange Shirt Day,” a commemorative day intended to raise awareness about the impacts of residential schools.

The last residential school in Canada closed 25 years ago and intergenerational trauma is experienced by many Indigenous communities today. The residential school system separated Indigenous children from their families. Children were punished if they spoke their own languages or acknowledged their culture.

As a provider of a continuum of culturally-appropriate services, Yee Hong understands the harm caused when cultures are not fully embraced. Many of our residents, clients and staff experience systemic racism and discrimination however, we can’t overlook how we have also played a role in the displacement of Indigenous Peoples.

Whether we were born in Canada or immigrated here from another country, we are all settlers on unceded Indigenous lands. We gratefully acknowledge that Yee Hong is located and operates on the unceded traditional lands of many nations, including the Haudenosaunee, Huron-Wendat, Anishnabeg, Seneca, Chippewa, and the current treaty holders Mississaugas of the Credit Peoples.

As I reflect on my experiences, I think of all the opportunities afforded to me as a settler. I think of the impacts residential schools had and continue to have on Indigenous communities. I think of Yee Hong’s role in reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. Before reconciliation can become reality, we need to learn about the experience of Indigenous Peoples. Yee Hong is planning education to help staff and leadership better understand the diverse cultures of the communities we serve. This is Yee Hong’s first step in our commitment to being effective allies.

To commemorate the history and legacy of residential schools, hundreds of in-person and virtual activities are taking place across the country. I’ve included some resources below. I encourage everyone to take part in local activities. It’s our duty as Canadians to learn about the history of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in Canada.