Today, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day), is a moment for all of us to pause, reflect, and commit to continued learning about the tragic legacy of Canada’s residential school system, the last of which closed in 1996. This day is not just a symbol, but a powerful reminder of the pain and trauma endured by thousands of Indigenous children who were torn from their families, stripped of their cultural identities, and subjected to abuse and neglect in these institutions. The intergenerational trauma from these schools still has an overwhelming impact on the community today.

The origin of the orange shirt as a symbol comes from Phyllis Webstad’s story, whose new orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at residential school. Her experience symbolizes the loss of identity and dignity suffered by so many. This day reminds us to remember those lives lost, honour the survivors, and acknowledge the ongoing effects of this dark chapter in our history.

At Greenwin, we are committed to acknowledging this history not just on September 30th, but year-round. Through ongoing training, dialogue, and resource sharing, we are deepening our understanding of the true meaning behind the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day) and ensuring that our efforts towards reconciliation go beyond performative gestures.

Learning to Take Meaningful Action
Last month, our team had the privilege of participating in our first Indigenous Cultural Competency Training (ICCT) session, led by the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC). It was a humbling experience that opened our eyes to the complexities of reconciliation, the challenges faced by Indigenous communities, and how we, as individuals and as a company, can contribute meaningfully to this process. We are eager to continue these learning opportunities, as education is a vital step in making sure our solidarity translates into action.

Reconciliation requires more than simply wearing an orange shirt once a year. It demands that we remain vigilant about understanding the past, supporting Indigenous communities in the present, and working together to build a better future. That’s why we are committed to ongoing training, continuing these important conversations, and ensuring that our work toward reconciliation is not a checkbox but a lifelong journey.

Supporting Indigenous Communities
In addition to education, we believe in backing our words with concrete action. As part of our commitment to supporting Indigenous lives and cultures, Greenwin has made a donation to the Native Women’s Resource Centre, an organization that relies on community and spirit to offer enhanced programming, cultural connections and essential support to Indigenous women, children and youth.

Reflecting and Moving Forward
Today, on September 30, all Greenwin team members will be observing a moment of silence at 10:00 AM in honour of the survivors and in memory of the children who never came home. We also invite everyone to wear orange, not as a superficial display, but as a meaningful expression of solidarity with Indigenous communities and a reminder of the work still to be done.