September 30, 2021 is the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and is a response to the TRC Call to Action 80. Trinity Western University hosts a campus-wide Day of Learning for the community to reflect on the meaning and history behind this day.
Trinity Western’s campus-wide Day of Learning is for students, staff and faculty, to help us all foster greater knowledge and understanding of Indigenous culture, and to take time to reflect on the history of residential schools.
The day began with Sto:lo protocol and ceremony, which took place at the David E. Enarson Gymnasium. The purpose of gathering is to learn and grow in our understanding of the history and legacy of Indian Residential Schools and to honour the survivors, their families and communities.
University Siya:m, Patricia Victor led in the remembrance of the children who did not return home from the residential schools. The sounding of bell chimes repeated 215 times symbolically represented the mourning for children who died in residential schools. One additional bell chime was sounded at the end, to mark an ongoing journey of recovery.
Following this, Stó:lō pastor and Chief Andrew Victor spoke movingly on “The Role of the Church in Truth and Reconciliation.”
After Chief Andrew Victor's message, the community gathered into small groups for discussion and prayer.
A series of learning workshops and activities are to be hosted throughout the afternoon, led by Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders.
At the conclusion of afternoon learning activities, once again the community will gather together, ending the day with Stó:lō protocol. The witnesses will share their reflections, and protocol gifts will be given to all participants to remember what we have learned together.
Trinity Western University is grateful to University Siyá:m Patricia Victor, Grand Chief Clarence Pennier, Chief Andrew Victor, and the Indigenous leaders and elders who led and participated at TWU's Day of Learning.
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is Canada’s premier Christian liberal arts university dedicated to equipping students to establish meaningful connections between career, life, and the needs of the world. It is a fully accredited research institution offering liberal arts and sciences, as well as professional schools in business, nursing, education, human kinetics, graduate studies, and arts, media, and culture. It has four campuses and locations: Langley, Richmond-Lansdowne, Richmond-Minoru, and Ottawa. TWU emphasizes academic excellence, research, and student engagement in a vital faith community committed to forming leaders to have a transformational impact on culture. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn.
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