National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
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The Town of Edson is recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and the important message/reflection that goes along with it.
As of August 2021, more than 1,300 unmarked graves have been found across the sites of more than five former residential schools. Early estimates by the National Center for Truth and Reconciliation show over 3,200 children died over the 160+ year history of residential schools.
The date of September 30th also marks Orange Shirt Day, an unofficial day that has been observed since 2013 in memory of a piece of clothing then-six-year-old Phyllis Webstad had taken from her on her first day at a residential school in 1973.
Town of Edson Council and staff are participating in Orange Shirt Day, and the flags will remain lowered in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Please note that Town Facilities will be closed today, except for tax collection/payments at the Civic Centre as, unfortunately, this day falls on our extended tax deadline required by bylaw. For more information on the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, see the attached poster and visit the following links.
More information can be found at:
https://indigenouspeoplesatlasofcanada.ca/article/history-of-residential-schools/
https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/residential-schools