Join Dalton Associates as we host a gathering to recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day – a day of remembrance, reflection, action and learning about the tragic history and long-standing effects of residential schools. This day originated from the story of Phyllis Webstad, a residential school survivor. In 1973, when she was six years old, Phyllis was sent to the St. Joseph Mission Residential School in British Columbia. On her first day, her new orange shirt, which she had been excited to wear, was taken away from her. The shirt symbolized the loss of her identity, culture, and language during her time at the school. In 2013, Phyllis shared her story, and it inspired the creation of Orange Shirt Day as an opportunity to raise awareness about the impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities and to promote reconciliation.
This event will feature an intimate presentation by Leo Atlookan from Eabametoong First Nation, offering personal reflections on the impact of Canada’s residential schools on family, community, and Nation. The presentation will take place at three different times: 10:00am, 12:00pm, and 2:00pm Eastern Time (ET). You are welcome to explore the Dalton Associates Legacy Space, a safe space for people to strengthen their awareness about the true history of Canada, created in partnership with the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund. You will also be able to listen to a Powwow Drum Group and singers!
Date and Time:
Sat, Sep 30, 10:00am – 4:00pm (Presentations at 10am, 12pm, 2pm)
Location:
Dalton Associates
240 St. David Street North
Fergus, ON
Event Details:
- Scheduled presentations will take place at 10:00am, 12:00pm, and 2:00pm Eastern Time (ET)
- Light refreshments and snacks will be available
- A children’s craft activity will be on site
- We encourage everyone to wear orange
About Leo Atlookan:
Leo Atlookan is a Wellness Navigator/ Community Support Coordinator with the Indigenous Mental Wellness Division at Dalton Associates. Leo travels monthly into Fort Albany First Nation and Eabametoong First Nation and assists with mental health, counselling and community supports. Leo is from Eabametoong First Nation Ontario and comes from a large family of five brothers and two sisters. Prior to moving to Toronto in July 2022 with his wife, Leo worked at John C. Yesno Education Centre as the Social Counsellor for 11 years. Leo is often asked to conduct presentations at various events about his home community, regalia, and the boil water advisory issue. In his spare time, Leo loves to draw. Some of his work is currently on display at Dalton Associates’ Legacy Space in Fergus, ON.
RSVP for the Event
The scheduled presentation will take place at 10:00am, 12:00pm, and 2:00pm Eastern Time (ET). Please indicate your preferred time below or select “undecided.” Your input will assist us in the planning of the event.