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Perth County Warden urges reflection on the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada

Perth County's Warden says public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process

Jim Aitcheson encouraged everyone in the County to wear Orange and take time today to reflect on the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada and the legacy of residential schools.

He also pointed to the impact of colonialism, and missing and murdered indigenous women and girls .

Aitcheson said, "we must commemorate the tragic history and ongoing legacy of residential schools, and honour the survivors, their families and communities. It is estimated that 150,000 children attended residential schools in Canada."

He said the creation of this day is in fulfillment of Call-to-Action #80 from National Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report. Released in 2015, the report comes from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and contains containing 94 Calls-to-Action. This date coincides with Orange Shirt Day which marks the time of year historically in which Indigenous children were taken from their homes to residential schools.

He added, "Beyond public acknowledgement, education on these issues is one of the first and important steps on this complex journey of reconciliation. Please take some time this day to learn more about these important issues and how you can support indigenous communities across Canada."

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