Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Honours Truth, Healing, and Reconciliation

Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Honours Truth, Healing, and Reconciliation

Ontario, Canada – The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) honours Survivors of the Residential School System, their families, and communities on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day). This year, ONWA highlighted intergenerational healing and the strength of Indigenous families through gatherings, ceremonies, and storytelling.

In Thunder Bay, ONWA hosted a sacred fire to honour all Survivors, family members, and friends. This family-friendly gathering created space for community togetherness and featured Cedar Tea, Bannock, drumming, land games, and activities for children. With a special focus on honouring youth, the day emphasized healing, and resilience across generations.

In Toronto, ONWA participated in the Indigenous Legacy Gathering at Nathan Phillips Square, standing alongside survivors, Knowledge Keepers, and community members in a shared space of remembrance and cultural celebration.  ONWA also took part in the Survivor’s flag raising ceremony at Queen’s Park, a public act of recognition that honours the strength of Survivors and reaffirms a call to action for reconciliation across the country.

In addition, ONWA is releasing a video series featuring the stories of survivors of residential schools and their families. These stories reflect not only the lasting impact of the Residential School System but also the resilience, healing, and strength that continue to guide Indigenous peoples today. The series will be shared today throughout the day on ONWA’s YouTube channel.

“For the last 10 years, ONWA has been taking up our responsibility to the Survivors of residential schools by implementing a number of the Calls to Action. These Calls to Action are not only for colonial systems to take up, but also for Indigenous communities. If each person takes up one action, we will change the world” said Cora McGuire-Cyrette, CEO of ONWA.

ONWA calls on all Canadians to take time today for education, reflection, and reconciliation. By wearing an orange shirt, you stand in allyship with survivors and their families and show your commitment that every child matters.

Learn more here:

• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: https://nctr.ca/

• Orange Shirt Initiative: https://orangeshirtday.org/

• Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action

If you require support, please contact:

·the 24-Hour Residential School Crisis Line through Indigenous Services Canada toll-free at 1-866-925-4419.

·Talk4Healing support line at 1-855-544-HEAL, available via phone, chat, or text.

For more information and media inquiries, contact: 

Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager

Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)

Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca

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