News & Media

The Town of Ladysmith is marking the National Day Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30, 2023 – a day honouring Indigenous children, families and communities impacted by the residential school system.

 

We encourage community members to pause and reflect on Saturday, and regularly, on the intergenerational impacts of residential schools.  Only by hearing the stories of survivors can we move forward together in a positive and meaningful way.

 

“As we recognize the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, we pause to reflect on this journey we are on in our communities and across Canada. We work to heal from our past, support our Indigenous friends and neighbours who have suffered greatly under our colonial systems, and look to build a brighter future for all of us, together,” said Mayor Aaron Stone. “Please take time this weekend to learn more about our shared history and build understanding and appreciation for not just our troubled past, but the opportunity we have to move forward together in a good way. I am so thankful to be part of this journey in this era of reconciliation. We are stronger together.”

 

Both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day take place on September 30.

 

Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day that raises awareness of the impacts of residential schools and promotes the concept of “Every Child Matters.”

 

Ladysmith community members are encouraged to wear orange to honour the thousands of survivors of residential schools.

 

Additionally, the Every Child Matters flag has flown the month of September at the Transfer Beach Amphitheatre.  The Ladysmith sign at 1st Avenue, Aggie Hall and the chessboard downtown will all be illuminated in orange on Saturday night.   

 

Municipal buildings will be closed on Monday, October 2, 2023, to mark the federal statutory holiday.  The Frank Jameson Community Centre will close on Saturday and be open on Monday.