Executive director of the North Thompson Aboriginal Cultural Centre Society (NTACCS) Cindy Wilgosh addressed a large community crowd on Sept. 30 at the Dutch Lake Community Centre in Clearwater.
"This day is a time to honour the children who died, suffered abuse in residential schools and those that never returned to their families after being taken away from their homes," Wilgosh siad. "We are here to honour them and their families on this day of remembrance."
Orange Shirt Day or National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Day is a day that Indigenous and non-Indigenous people come together in the spirit of hope and reconciliation to honour residential school survivors, their families, and communities, added Wilgosh.
The well-attended event was filled with activities, music, drumming, dancing and speeches that revolved around the true meaning of the day meant to honour survivors, victims and their families.
Wilgosh described the day as "empowering and amazing" and many community members, local officials and guests continue to praise her dedicated vision in the many events she continues to organize in the North Thompson Valley.
"We thank you Cindy for your continued strong leadership in bringing an entire community together today," commented Keith Henry. president and CEO of the B.C. Métis Federation.
In closing Wilgosh added, "We came here to remember those innocent children lost and be sure they are never forgotten. Thank you fall for this beautiful day of love and respect in memory of them all."
