Today, on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which coincides with Orange Shirt Day, the YMCA recognizes and commemorates the harm that was done to Indigenous children in Canada who were sent away to residential schools; and the journey of healing Survivors and their families continue to embark upon. We remain dedicated to the ongoing process of reconciliation and to ensuring that we place a special and intentional focus on fostering our relationship with Indigenous peoples and communities in Canada.
Today we invite you to read Phyllis’s story, founder of Orange Shirt Day, and explore the map of residential schools in Canada and learn the school’s name, opening and closing dates, and more.