The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, colloquially known as Orange Shirt Day, is held annually on September 30th, and is an opportunity to create meaningful discussion about the effects of Residential Schools and the legacy they have left behind.
At the YMCA, we continue to value the opportunity to work with Indigenous people; to listen, understand, and make meaningful change. YMCA Calgary is proud to work with Indigenous children, youth, and families through programs that support cultural identity, leadership, and recreation. As we reflect on the important learnings and work we have ahead with respect to Truth and Reconciliation, we welcome you to join YMCA Calgary on that journey.
Learn more about YMCA Calgary’s Indigenous Department
Download the Calgary Foundation’s Indigenous Ally Toolkit
Access the Calgary Public Library’s National Indigenous Month reading recommendations
We invite you to take some time to participate in reconciliation by attending our upcoming events and learning opportunities both within the YMCA and the broader community. We will be adding more events so check back throughout the month:
Truth and Reconciliation Virtual Reality Experience with Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth (USAY) – We are hosting outreach events at select YMCA Calgary branches to share the work our Indigenous Department is doing in the community and to spark discussion regarding Truth and Reconciliation. This event will be in collaboration with Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth (USAY), who will deliver an interactive virtual reality experience featuring an Elder guided journey through Writing on Stone Provincial Park.
September 13 from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. @ Shawnessy YMCA
September 14 from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. @ Remington YMCA in Quarry Park
September 29 from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. @ Melcor YMCA at Crowfoot
Film Viewing: Elder in the Making – Join us for an evening of learning in our performance theatre as we host a FREE public viewing of the Treaty 7 road trip documentary Elder in the Making. This film gives audiences a starting point for discussing the troubled and hopeful relationship between First Nations, settlers, and newcomers.
September 21 from 6 – 8 p.m. @ BMO Theatre at Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge
September 28 from 5 – 7 p.m. @ Evan Hazell Theatre at Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton
Pokaiks – the Children: Orange Shirt Day Event 2022 – USAY and CIF Reconciliation Society have come together to organize the Pokaiks Commemorative Walk & IndigiTRAILS – Remembering Our Children. The event will include interactive activities for adults and children to work on building a better future together! We welcome you to join us in showing love, honour and resistance to our beloved community.
Friday, September 30th, 2022 @ Prince’s Island Park (at the large stage)