A sea of orange shirts gathered behind Lloydminster City Hall on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to recognize the impacts of residential school.
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The event was hosted by the Lloydminster Native Friendship Centre and was a chance to remember the children who didn’t make it home.
“Traditionally, it’s called Orange Shirt Day or Truth and Reconciliation Day,” said Deborah Munroe, Lloydminster Native Friendship Centre executive director. “It’s a day of awareness to let people know what Indigenous communities faced and the tragedy we went through in regards to the residential school system.
“Today, we are honouring the children that we have lost to residential schools and the children who have survived and their families.”
A community walk took place before refreshments and speeches.
“We’re doing an honour walk today and then we have some speeches. We have two people that will share their personal story of their experience with residential schools,” said Munroe.
The event started with an opening prayer before the walk took place. Support was available for those that may have felt overwhelmed.
“We have elders on hand, if you reach out to us and you’re feeling triggered, we can offer support,” said Munroe.
The day was well-attended with over 150 people taking in the event.
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