Monday, Sept. 30 marked the fourth annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which is recognized and celebrated across the country. On this day Canadians are encouraged to wear orange to honour thousands of residential school survivors.
The themes of the day included love, education, understanding, and unity as thousands throughout Cowichan Valley showed up in downtown Duncan wearing shades of orange to be present, listen, and walk together in solidarity and unity.
Aside from the odd inconsiderate driver showing off their engines, one could almost hear a pin drop as residential school survivors shared their stories and hard truths while all in attendance hung on every word. There were several special speakers, pow wow dancers as well as a special performance from the Cowichan Tzinquaw dancers.
After the speeches, stories and performances, which left goosebumps and a lot to reflect on, the Walk With Us event began its way though the streets of downtown Duncan starting at the corner of Canada Avenue and Station Street. Community members created an ocean of orange.