Further Closures For Orange Shirt Day And National Day For Truth And Reconciliation

We've learned more on what's going to be open and closed in the area on Friday, Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

We've learned more on what's going to be open and closed in the area on Friday, Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

The City of Campbell River is inviting residents to practice allyship with the First Peoples of this Land and to wear orange in recognition and honour of the children, families, and communities impacted by residential schools in Canada.

The City is encouraging conversations around Indigenous history and reconciliation.

Staff have been working closely with Hereditary Chiefs and Destination Campbell River staff on a collection of short stories that reflect the history of Campbell River and honour its past; these stories will be shared with the community later this year.

Local indigenous leaders have shared advice on how to practice allyship; the practice of working towards social justice, inclusion, and human rights by members of a group who usually hold privilege, to advance the interests of an oppressed or marginalized group.

Allyship is a lifelong process of creating relationships built on trust, safety, consistency, and accountability with marginalized and oppressed groups.

Ways you can be an ally include committing to never perpetuate or stand by in silence when you hear racist remarks or negative stereotypes about Indigenous People, attending Indigenous-led events and initiatives, wearing orange on Orange Shirt Day, and simply displaying authentic Indigenous artwork in your business.

It's also suggested you read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 Calls to Action. Hereditary Chief, Elder James Quatell, a residential school survivor, says the road to reconciliation is through understanding that although those children were lost, they could be called back home through ceremony and remembrance.

He adds that, "Reconciliation isn’t just a word, it’s an action, and something that each person has to consider and intentionally address."

There will be an event in Spirit Square in Campbell River on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

All City facilities will be closed, including City Hall, the Sportsplex, and Community Centre.

Curbside garbage, recycling, and yard waste will not be picked up on this statutory holiday and will move forward one weekday.