September 30th is The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day is an opportunity for us to recognize and respect the legacy of residential schools. Since 2013, this day has been recognized as “Orange Shirt Day.”

Orange Shirt Day recalls the experience of residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad, who attended the St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School, Williams Lake, BC in 1973. Phyllis was six-years old and upon attendance of the school, her orange shirt, which she had received from her grandmother, was taken away from her and September 30th was chosen due to the time of year when Indigenous children were removed from their families and forced into the residential schools.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada stated, “All Canadians, as Treaty people, share responsibility for establishing and maintaining mutually respectful relationships” and Rotaflow is committed to embracing and recognizing reconciliation by appropriately commemorating The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, by observing Orange Shirt Day at our head office and job site locations. We encourage all employees to wear their orange shirts to work on this day. 
 
Find out more information on Orange Shirt Day HERE.
 
We must listen and learn, and remember that we can participate in reconciliation not just on September 30th but every day. Every Child Matters.
 
Below are links to some Indigenous-led or owned companies where you can purchase Orange Shirts or make donations. 
 
Orange Shirt Day Society
MacEwan Bookstore
Moonstone Creations
 
While September 30th is a federally regulated holiday, it is not provincially regulated. Therefore, it will be business as usual for Rotaflow employees. We encourage you to show your support and wear orange, even under your coveralls.