Honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Stories help us remember. They help us understand.
As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we’re honoured to share a reflection from one of our SOAHAC team members; a personal story that speaks to the heart of what this day means, and why it matters.
Staff Reflection
It is this time of year as we approach September 30, Orange Shirt Day, also known as the
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, that I think quite a lot about my mother Sylvia George (Bunce) – also known as Poddy. She was just a young girl when she was relinquished to the Mohawk Institute from her home and community of Aamjiwnaang. Although she was just 4 or 5 years old and didn’t remain long in the residential school system, it was long enough to have an impact.
I remember her sharing the story of waiting for her mother to come and visit her at the Brantford Institute and watching her mother Annie approaching the school coming down the laneway. Sadly, she never got to see her mom that day as she was turned away from visiting. Mom was eventually moved from Brantford to Mount St Elgin residential school in Muncey,, a little closer to home. I am so thankful that my grandmother did not leave my mom to endure a long stay in the hands of people who would not love her nor provide a safe caring environment for her. Mom referred to residential school as the mush hole, however she never spoke in detail or at length of her experience, which was likely to save us from her memories and perhaps some memories faded over time.
I am grateful to have grown up in a loving home with my parents, 10 siblings and my grandfather. Mom never spoke the Ojibway language with my father and grandfather who both spoke fluently. Although she said she could understand them, she said she could not speak it. What I have come to understand is perhaps she didn’t want to speak the language because of her residential school experience. Ultimately, the Ojibway language was not taught to us at home, which was likely her way of protecting us. In memory of my mother Sylvia George, I say miigwech for being strong, resilient, and for your love and protection.
Baa Maa Pii Gwaabmin – until we meet again.
- Nikki George - Indigenous Cultural Safety Specialist
All SOAHAC Health Centres will be closed on Tuesday, September 30 in recognition of this important day. We stand with Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island in remembering the past, acknowledging the present, and working toward a more just and equitable future.
At SOAHAC, this day holds deep meaning for our patients, staff, supporters, and the communities we walk with every day. It is a time to reflect, remember, and recommit to the work of restoring balance and wellbeing, emotionally, spiritually, mentally, and physically.
We carry this commitment forward through the care we provide, which is:
- Grounded in Indigenous knowledge
- Informed by truth
- Guided by culture
- Focused on healing
Across the regions we serve — from Windsor to Waterloo Wellington and north to Owen Sound — communities are coming together to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation through ceremonies, walks, teachings, and other acts of remembrance.
We encourage everyone to attend a local event, learn from Indigenous voices, and show your support in meaningful, respectful ways.
Find an event near you:
Chippewa
London
Owen Sound
Waterloo Wellington
Windsor
Every Child Matters.
Every Family Matters.
Every Community Matters.
If you are in need of urgent support, please contact the The Hope for Wellness Help Line for counselling and crisis intervention at 1-855-242-3310. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Former residential school survivors can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health support from the Government of Canada.