Ways to spend National Day For Truth and Reconciliation

Truth and reconciliation day on September 30th is an opportunity for reflection, learning, and supporting Indigenous communities.

In coastal BC, this day is deeply meaningful, as it is home to many First Nations with rich histories and cultures. There are now many events and different ways people are honouring the journey to healing that those who are affected by the residential school system are on.

Read more to see how you can spend the day honouring the Indigenous peoples of BC on the road to truth and reconciliation

Why do we wear an orange shirt?

Phyllis Webstad went to her first day at her residential school dressed in her new orange shirt, at just six-years old the shirt was taken from her.

To learn more about the history of Orange Shirt Day: Click here

Photo credit: Orangeshirtday.org
 

Ways to effect change

While you take the time to acknowledge the Indigenous history on Truth and Reconciliation day, consider the ways you can effect change. While exploring events, dining, and participating in different activities take a moment to know who’s land you’re on, be a respectful traveler, and educate yourself!
To read more about 6 ways to effect change visit the Indigenous Tourism website: Click here

If you would like to donate:
• https://www.irsss.ca/donate
• https://truenorthaid.givecloud.co/donate
• https://fncaringsociety.com/what-you-can-do/donate

Supporting Indigenous communities
 

Here are some ways you can actively participate and support Indigenous communities on this important day.

1. Take a road trip through the island and enjoy the sights of the Indigenous land. 

Start your trip in Nanaimo and follow the pacific rim highway up to Tofino. With this trip you will see the traditional coast Salish lands of the Nuu-chah-nulth Territory.

Read more: https://www.indigenousbc.com/stories/road-trip-pacific-rim-highway-4-nanaimo-to-tofino/

Photo credit: Indigenous Tourism BC

2. Celebrate the traditions and cultures of the Indigenous people at the South Island Powwow

With joining in on the Powwow you get an opportunity to recognize and remember all the survivors and those affected by the past. Everyone is welcome to this event in Victoria, the traditional territories of the Lkwungen (Lekwungen) peoples. This is a great opportunity to learn and celebrate the Indigenous culture.

Read more: https://songheesnation.ca/south-island-powwow

Royal Athletic Park 1014 Caledonia Ave, Victoria, BC

Photo credit: victoria-buzz
 

3. Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

Explore the history of first nations in Whistler, follow along on a tour led by cultural ambassadors from the Squamish nation and Lil’wat nation. Stop by the Thunderbird café for Indigenous inspired eats like a bannock taco! Additionally, there is a shop where you can check out handcrafted first nations merchandise.

Read more: Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

Whistler, British Columbia, at 4584 Blackcomb Way in Whistler’s Upper Village

Photo credit: Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
 

4. Dine Indigenous

If you’re a foodie who wants to support the Indigenous community check out these popular spots to grab a bite to eat. Feel good about your dining options knowing you are supporting local Indigenous communities when you order your meal. Enjoy the salmon n’ bannock bistro in Vancouver, located in the Traditional Coast Salish Territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil Waututh First Nations.

Read more: https://www.indigenousbc.com/stories/Indigenous-Eateries

1128 West Broadway, Vancouver

Photo credit: UberEats

To explore more Indigenous tourism destinations in BC visit: https://www.indigenousbc.com/