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As we continue our journey through September in anticipation of Orange Shirt Day on September 30th, it's essential to explore the history behind this day of remembrance. Orange Shirt Day is more than a symbol; it is a call to confront and acknowledge the painful legacy of the residential school system in Canada. To understand why this day is so significant, we must delve into the history of these schools, their intended purpose, and the devastating impact they had on Indigenous communities across the country. The Origins and Purpose of Residential Schools The residential school system in Canada was a...

As September begins, Canadians prepare for Orange Shirt Day, observed on September 30th. This day is a crucial time for reflection, remembrance, and education about the legacy of residential schools in Canada. Orange Shirt Day originated from the story of Phyllis Webstad, a six-year-old Northern Secwepemc girl whose new orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at a residential school in 1973. This simple act represents the loss of identity and culture suffered by thousands of Indigenous children in these schools.Established in 2013, Orange Shirt Day serves as a reminder of the harmful impact of residential schools...

Allyship, at its core, should mean standing in solidarity with marginalized communities, actively supporting their voices, and creating space for their narratives to be heard. However, a troubling shift has occurred, turning allyship into a form of performative activism that centers the ally rather than the community they claim to support. This phenomenon, commonly referred to as "white saviorism," has colonized the idea of allyship, diluting its effectiveness and distorting its purpose. Adding to the complexity, critics often twist this term to discourage real allyship, further marginalizing the communities that need support.What is White Saviorism?White saviorism refers to the act...

Taking a Stand: Beyond Pro-Awareness to Active Anti-Racism and Anti-HateIn our pursuit of a just and equitable world, it’s not enough to simply declare support for marginalized communities; we must actively work against the forces that oppress them. As we celebrate both Indigenous History Month and Pride this June, it's crucial to recognize that true allyship requires more than passive endorsement—it demands active opposition to racism, hate, and discrimination in all forms.   The Need for Active Engagement Being pro-diversity or pro-equality is a commendable stance, but without action, it often remains just that—a stance. To drive real change, we...