Statement on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Honouring the Past, Building a Just Future
On September 30, we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day. This day serves as a time of reflection for all Canadians to honour the children who were taken from their families, the survivors who endured, and the many Indigenous peoples who continue to feel the effects of residential schools. It is a day that asks us to remember, reflect, and recommit to healing and reconciliation.
#OrangeShirtDay was inspired by Phyllis Webstad, a survivor of the residential school system, whose orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at school. This act, seemingly small, was a powerful symbol of the broader erasure of Indigenous identities, languages, and cultures that so many Indigenous children were subjected to. The orange shirt, now a national symbol, represents the loss, pain, and resilience of all those affected by these schools.
We at OneHoop, a proudly Indigenous-owned and operated organization, stand in solidarity with the survivors, families, and communities who continue to carry the legacy of this painful history. We are profoundly grateful for the opportunities we now have to pursue our dreams and aspirations—opportunities denied to so many of our ancestors. The fact that we are able to live and build in ways our people were once stripped of fills us with both gratitude and responsibility.
While the act of wearing an orange shirt symbolizes solidarity and awareness, we believe that true reconciliation is an ongoing process that requires concrete actions. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action provide a roadmap for addressing historical wrongs and creating systemic change. As an Indigenous-owned business, we view these calls as not only national priorities but also personal responsibilities.
We recognize that economic empowerment, cultural revitalization, and sustainable partnerships are key to ensuring that Indigenous peoples can fully participate in the opportunities of today and tomorrow. This is why OneHoop is dedicated to working alongside other Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations to create lasting impact through meaningful collaboration.
Reconciliation is not simply about acknowledging the past; it is about actively creating a future in which Indigenous peoples are recognized, respected, and given the opportunity to thrive. We invite all Canadians to reflect on the legacy of residential schools and consider how they can contribute to healing and rebuilding. Whether through supporting Indigenous businesses, advocating for policy changes, or educating future generations, each of us has a role to play in this shared journey.
As we move forward, we carry with us the knowledge that reconciliation is not a single act, but a collective and ongoing effort. We remain committed to pursuing our dreams while uplifting our communities, ensuring that the injustices of the past are never forgotten but also that they do not define our future.
Let us continue to honour this day by engaging in actions that move us closer to a just and equitable society. #EveryChildMatters. Every voice matters. And together, we can build a future grounded in respect, understanding, and shared prosperity.
Every Child Matters.
As we observe the National Day for #TruthAndReconciliation #NDTR, consider the vital role each of us plays in supporting local Indigenous initiatives. As Cadmus often reminds us, there are two worldviews in Canada today: the Euro-Western perspective, which many find “beautiful” and thriving, and the Indigenous worldview, which has existed long before Europeans arrived and continues to flourish. Embracing both perspectives means recognizing the richness of Indigenous culture and the importance of its contributions to our shared society. It is essential that we actively pursue change together, fostering partnerships, supporting Indigenous businesses, and amplifying Indigenous voices. By doing so, we contribute to a more inclusive and equitable future for all Canadians.