The Town of Ponoka is encouraging the public to take part in the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation this week.
On Friday, September 30th, the Town will be lowering their flags at half-mast to recognize the importance of the statutory holiday. Town facilities will also be closed on September 30th with the exception of the Ponoka Arena Complex.
“The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time for all of us to take a moment to listen. It is only through listening that we can get to understanding,” said Ponoka Mayor Kevin Ferguson.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was created by the Government of Canada in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #80, which calls for a federal statutory day of public commemoration to reflect on the ongoing impacts of residential schools, and to honour survivors, their families and communities.
The Town is also encouraging the public to wear orange shirts in honour of Orange Shirt Day.
“As a way to bring awareness to the painful legacy of residential schools, the Town is also encouraging Ponoka citizens and Town staff to wear orange on September 30,” said Sandra Lund, Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Ponoka
Orange Shirt Day was started by Phyllis Webstad who was given an orange shirt from her grandmother for her first day at a residential school that was taken from her. Orange Shirt Day is on September 30th because it was the time of year where children were taken from their homes and placed in residential schools.
Additionally, the Town of Ponoka is encouraging residents to take part in the Discovering Truth event that will be taking place between Ponoka Elementary School and the Youth Centre along Highway 2A. You can read more about that event, by visiting the link below.
Mon, Apr 22, 1:33 PM
Full-time, Administrative, Professionals