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On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation ONWA Honours Survivors and Calls for Continued Action

ONWA
11 minutes ago
2 min read

Thunder Bay, ON – In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) honours Residential School Survivors, the children who never returned home, and their families and communities.


The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also recognized by many Indigenous communities as Orange Shirt Day, is a day of remembrance, reflection, education, and action. It honours the thousands of children who were forcibly taken from their families and communities, recognizes the lasting impacts of the Residential School System, and celebrates the strength, resilience, wisdom, and leadership of Survivors and Indigenous communities.


Orange Shirt Day began in honour of Phyllis Webstad, a residential school Survivor whose new orange shirt, given to her by her grandmother, was taken from her on her first day at residential school. Her story has become a powerful symbol of the experiences of Survivors and the ongoing journey toward healing and reconciliation.


For ONWA, reconciliation means honouring the healing journeys of Survivors and their families while taking meaningful action to advance the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. ONWA continues this work through programs and advocacy informed by Indigenous women and Indigenous matriarchal values.

  • Through ONWA’s Parenting Across the Lifecycle program, ONWA responds to Call to Action 5 by providing culturally appropriate parenting supports rooted in traditional practices, culture, land-based healing, and the importance of Indigenous women’s roles as mothers and caregivers.

  • ONWA works to advance Call to Action 1 by advocating to reduce the number of Indigenous children in care through policy, legislative, and regulatory change that supports Indigenous women’s right to mother and helps keep families together.


Reconciliation is a shared responsibility. ONWA encourages all Canadians to listen to Survivors and Indigenous communities, learn about the Calls to Action, and consider how they can contribute to reconciliation.


By wearing orange, Canadians can stand in allyship with Survivors and their families and affirm that Every Child Matters.



For more information and media inquiries, contact:

Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager

Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)

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ONWA’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Gathering


ONWA will host a Sacred Fire to honour Survivors, family members, and friends. The family-friendly gathering will include Cedar Tea, bannock, drumming, land games, and activities for children and youth, creating space for healing, joy, and community togetherness. Lunch will be provided.


When: Wednesday, September 30, 2026 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Where: ONWA, 380 Ray Blvd., Thunder Bay, ON



Learn More




Support


  • Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419 (24 hours)

  • Talk4Healing: 1-855-544-HEAL (phone, chat, or text)



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