The south end of Turtle Island Walk is the starting point of campus observances of Orange Shirt Day on Friday, Sept. 29.
A procession along Turtle Island Walk will highlight campus observances of Orange Shirt Day on Friday, Sept. 29.
Orange Shirt Day, which officially takes place on Sept. 30, serves as a reminder of the collective obligation to contemplate the enduring consequences of residential schools and the broader impact of colonization. It is a day for acknowledgment, reflection, and solidarity, and an opportunity to engage in dialogue and learn and work collectively to build a more inclusive and just society.
The University’s observance will commence at 9:15 a.m. at the Wyandotte Street entrance to Turtle Island Walk and include speakers, a walk, and the raising of the “Every Child Matters” flag as a symbolic tribute to the children who never returned from residential schools, as well as a mark of respect to the survivors and their families.
The University encourages campus leaders to attend, support the participation of staff in the event, and create an environment for all to engage in listening and learning. To facilitate this, avoid scheduling meetings on Friday and show support by wearing an orange shirt.
The Turtle Island Aboriginal Education Centre is offering items for sale to support a fund for Indigenous students at a series of pop-ups:
- the Toldo Lancer Centre from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27,
- the CAW Student Centre from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, and
- the Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market on Pelissier Street north of Wyandotte Street from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30.
Available for purchase are buttons, T-shirts, and lawn signs bearing messages for Orange Shirt Day, and the Campus Community Cookbook filled with recipes submitted by faculty, students, and staff.